Flu vaccination: Health Minister urges vaccination in MV!

Flu vaccination: Health Minister urges vaccination in MV!

Autumn is cold season, and with the arrival of cooler temperatures not only does the off-season arrive, but also the flu season. Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania's Health Minister Stefanie Drese (SPD) is sounding the alarm and urgently calling for flu vaccinations. “Vaccinations are an effective measure to reduce the spread of the virus and protect vulnerable groups,” she emphasizes. Autumn is known for increasing case numbers, and children, older people and people with chronic illnesses are particularly at risk of severe cases. n-tv.de reports that it's time not to put off getting your flu shot.

The Health Minister also expresses concern about growing vaccination fatigue among the population. A lack of knowledge is often required when it comes to explaining the benefits of vaccination prevention. It is important to communicate this aspect clearly. Furthermore, it ensures that sufficient vaccines are available. The vaccinations are available not only from general practitioners, but also in health authorities and soon in many pharmacies.

More options for vaccination

The third nationwide “Long Night of Vaccination” will take place next Wednesday, a campaign that makes it possible to get vaccinated late into the night. Over 350 facilities in Germany are taking part to increase vaccination rates and raise awareness of the upcoming flu season. A pharmacy in Rostock in Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania is also taking part in this initiative. The whole thing is now running for the third year in a row to send an example against the widespread vaccination fatigue.

A look at the numbers shows that the vaccination rate among people over 60 in the 2023/2024 flu season was only around 38% - far too low compared to the WHO target of 75% for this age group. This is worrying, especially when you consider that older people and those with immune deficiencies have an increased risk of severe disease. rki.de points out that the Standing Vaccination Commission (STIKO) recommends an annual influenza vaccination for people at risk.

The importance of the flu vaccination

Timely vaccination is essential, especially for the elderly population, who are particularly vulnerable to complications. The vaccination rate also fell from 44% to 40% among those over 65 in Germany, as the Statistics from Destatis show. In an international comparison, Germany is far behind countries such as Denmark, Ireland or Portugal, where vaccination rates are 78%, 76% and 72%.

Especially in view of the upcoming winter months, when the flu epidemic typically reaches its peak, it is more necessary than ever to actively protect your own health. Minister Drese appeals to the population: “Come by, find out more and take advantage of the vaccination offers!”