Before the start of the flu season, pharmacies in the country assume that there is enough vaccine against influenza. The delivery of vaccines for the 2026/2027 season to wholesalers and pharmacies has already begun, said a spokesman for the Baden-Württemberg State Pharmacists Association. It is assumed that flu vaccines will be readily available at the start of the vaccination season.
According to the information, the ideal time for a vaccination is between October and mid-December. “It is crucial that vaccination protection is established before the flu epidemic really gains momentum,” explained the spokesman. After the vaccination, the body needs another 10 to 14 days to develop sufficient protection. Anyone who gets vaccinated in September is not doing anything wrong. “Especially if there is an increased risk or if a suitable vaccination appointment may not be possible later.”
People can get vaccinated in both doctor's offices and pharmacies. However, because not every pharmacy offers vaccinations, it is advisable to inquire beforehand at the desired pharmacy or on the Internet, said the spokesman.
Flu waves sometimes start earlier and sometimes later
When the flu, which is caused by influenza viruses, makes its rounds in the country varies slightly every year. Last season, the state health department recorded the peak of the wave of infections in mid-January. In 2022/2023, most infections were registered in mid-December, whereas in 2025 it was not until mid-February.
The severity of the flu wave always varies slightly. Last year, the state health department recorded almost 26,000 cases; the year before there were almost 34,000. A spokeswoman for the Ministry of Health said it is not possible to predict exactly how severe the flu epidemic will be this year. In other countries in the northern hemisphere, such as South Korea or Japan, the influenza season started exceptionally early and particularly affected children and young people.
Influenza is mainly transmitted via droplets that are produced when coughing or sneezing. According to the RKI, it takes an average of one to two days from infection to the outbreak of the disease. Sudden illness, fever, cough, sore throat and headache are typical for influenza.
Minister calls on everyone to get vaccinated
According to the Standing Vaccination Commission (Stiko), older people, chronically ill people, pregnant women and infants and small children are particularly at risk. Severe cases requiring hospitalization particularly affect people with previous illnesses, people over 60 years of age and very young children. Stiko particularly recommends vaccination to older people, chronically ill people, pregnant women, residents of old people's and nursing homes and medical staff.
Baden-Württemberg's Ministry of Health, however, advises everyone to get vaccinated. Even those who are not at increased risk of developing a serious illness should get vaccinated. «Every vaccination counts! We can all make a contribution to protecting ourselves and those around us,” said Minister Oliver Hildenbrand (Greens). In the southwest, after consultation with your own doctor, the vaccination can also be used beyond the Stiko recommendation and is also paid for by statutory health insurance companies.
