Kreis Sigmaringen: With a quadruple flu vaccine

Last winter, an exceptionally strong flu epidemic overtook the population of Sigmaringen district. Part of the reason is the inefficiency of the influenza vaccine. Recently, however, there is a quadruple vaccine against viruses. And the health department of the district of Sigmaringen recommends that in the autumn, with the approach of the next influenza season, the favorable moment for the annual vaccination against the flu.

"Unlike a common illness, the flu or the actual flu can worsen: sudden onset of illness, cough, high fever, serious illness and long-lasting general weakness," said Susanne Haag-Spleen, health specialist public and head of the department. health. Complex complications such as pneumonia, inflammation of the brain or heart muscle occur mostly in the elderly and in people with pre-existing conditions.

Although the flu vaccine does not protect 100% against the flu, it's the best way to prevent it. This year, the Standing Committee on Immunization at the Robert Koch Institute has recommended the quadruple vaccine, which provides protection against two variants of influenza A and B, respectively. In general, vaccines are considered well tolerated. Sometimes, temporary general symptoms such as frustration or sweating, fatigue, headaches, muscle aches or limbs are noticed. As a rule, however, the symptoms disappear after one or two days without consequences. "In any case, the protection against influenza infection is now higher, the risk of contracting the disease is reduced," says Atilla Akinli, who works together with Jrgen Winter in Pfullendorf in the house located at the upper door.

During the winter flu epidemic in 2017/18, the number of medical consultations among doctors in Germany was estimated at around 9 million and the number of influenza-related hospitalizations at around 45,000. The annual flu wave usually started early in the year and then lasted three to four months. The best time for the vaccine is before the start of the cold season, from October to November. The protective effect would begin two weeks after vaccination and would continue during the season. "In Baden-Württemberg, the influenza vaccine is recommended without restriction for all age groups and costs are covered by the statutory health insurance," says Susanne Haag-Spleen.