Germany’s Standing Committee on Vaccination, part of the Robert Koch Institute, has stated that the optimal time to receive the flu vaccine is between October and mid-December. The committee noted that the vaccine typically takes 10 to 14 days to become fully effective.
The committee highlighted the common flu symptoms, including fever, severe cough, and intense body aches, while warning that the flu can lead to life-threatening complications such as pneumonia for some individuals.
To avoid these risks, the committee strongly recommended flu vaccination for those with weakened immune systems, particularly individuals over the age of 60.
Moreover, the vaccine is especially crucial for people suffering from chronic conditions such as heart disease, liver or kidney disease, diabetes, and neurological disorders like multiple sclerosis.
Furthermore, pregnant women are advised to get vaccinated, starting from the second trimester. However, those with chronic illnesses should consider getting the vaccine during the first trimester.