Vaccination

Standard vaccination protection and vaccinations indicated for specific reasons

A particular focus of our practice is on vaccinations. We distinguish between standard vaccinations recommended in Germany and so-called indication-based vaccinations. Standard vaccinations are recommended for everyone – regardless of individual risk factors or travel plans – and reliably protect against widespread infectious diseases such as measles, rubella, and tetanus. Indication-based vaccinations, on the other hand, are specifically recommended when there is an increased risk of certain diseases, for example, when traveling to distant countries. These include, for example, vaccinations against hepatitis A and B, typhoid fever, and yellow fever. We would be happy to advise you individually on your vaccination needs and keep all common vaccines readily available for you in our practice.

Vorbereitung einer Impfspritze mit Nadel und Durchstechflasche mit gelber Injektionslösung

Standard vaccinations (basic protection) for adults

Tetanus / Diphtheria

Vaccinations against tetanus and diphtheria are among the most important standard vaccinations for adults. Both diseases can cause serious, sometimes life-threatening complications. While tetanus is caused by bacteria in contaminated wounds, diphtheria is transmitted through droplet infection. Effective vaccination is therefore essential to protect yourself and others.

The Standing Committee on Vaccination (STIKO) recommends that all adults regularly receive booster vaccinations against tetanus and diphtheria. After completion of the primary immunization series in childhood, a booster vaccination should be given every 10 years to ensure lasting protection.

Basic immunization: Usually completed in childhood.
Booster vaccination: Recommended every 10 years.
Vaccine: Usually, a combination vaccine against tetanus, diphtheria and often also pertussis (whooping cough) is used.

Polio

Poliomyelitis, commonly known as infantile paralysis, is a viral infectious disease that can lead to severe paralysis and permanent disabilities. Until the second half of the 20th century, polio epidemics repeatedly occurred in Germany. In 1970, oral polio vaccination was introduced nationwide in West Germany, leading to a significant decline in the number of cases.

The Standing Committee on Vaccination (STIKO) recommends that all adults have their polio vaccination status checked. In particular, people born after 1970 or who have not received a complete primary immunization series should catch up on any missing vaccinations. A booster vaccination may be necessary for travel to certain countries or in areas with an increased risk of infection.

Basic immunization: Usually completed in childhood, especially for those born after 1970 due to the introduction of oral immunization.
Booster vaccination: In case of particular risk or according to individual recommendation, e.g. for travel or occupational exposure.
Vaccine: Today in Germany, an inactivated combination vaccine is used, which can also protect against other diseases (e.g. tetanus, diphtheria).

Whooping cough (pertussis)

Pertussis, better known as whooping cough, is a highly contagious bacterial infection that can be particularly dangerous for infants and the elderly. The disease often leads to a persistent, spasmodic cough and can cause serious complications such as respiratory distress, pneumonia, or even life-threatening conditions. Effective vaccination prevents the spread of the disease and protects particularly vulnerable groups.

The Standing Committee on Vaccination (STIKO) recommends that all adults regularly update their pertussis vaccination – ideally as part of the combined tetanus and diphtheria vaccination, every 10 years. Pregnant women are specifically advised to receive a pertussis booster vaccination during every pregnancy to provide the best possible protection for the newborn in the first months of life. This measure significantly contributes to preventing severe cases of pertussis in early childhood.

Primary immunization: Usually completed in childhood.
Booster vaccination: Recommended every 10 years, usually as a combination vaccine.
Special recommendation: Pregnant women should receive a booster vaccination in every pregnancy, regardless of the date of their last vaccination.
Vaccine: Combination vaccines are standard and contain protection against pertussis, tetanus and diphtheria.

Mumps / Measles / Rubella

Mumps, measles, and rubella are classic childhood diseases, but they can also lead to serious complications in adults. Measles is highly contagious and can cause pneumonia, encephalitis, or other serious secondary illnesses. Mumps can cause inflammation of the salivary glands, the pancreas, or even infertility. Rubella can also be severe in adults and is particularly dangerous during pregnancy, as it can cause birth defects in the unborn child.

The Standing Committee on Vaccination (STIKO) recommends that adults born after 1970 who have no, unclear, or incomplete vaccination against measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) receive a single vaccination with the MMR combination vaccine. This is particularly important for people who work in community settings or have contact with many people, such as medical personnel or those working in education.

Vaccination recommended for: All those born after 1970 with unclear, missing or incomplete vaccination protection
Vaccine: Combination vaccine against mumps, measles and rubella (MMR)
Number of vaccinations: Usually one dose in cases of absent or unclear immunity.

Pneumococci

Pneumococci are bacteria that can cause serious infections, such as pneumonia, meningitis, or sepsis, particularly in older people and those with certain pre-existing conditions. Vaccination offers effective protection against these diseases and helps prevent hospitalizations and complications.

The Standing Committee on Vaccination (STIKO) recommends pneumococcal vaccination for:

All persons aged 60 and over
People with chronic underlying diseases (e.g., cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, chronic lung or kidney diseases)
People with weakened immune systems

Depending on health status and age, the type of vaccine and the vaccination schedule may vary. Generally, a single vaccination is required, but a booster shot may be advisable for certain risk groups.

flu

Seasonal flu, caused by influenza viruses, can range from mild to severe and is particularly hard on older people and those with chronic illnesses. The flu vaccine reduces the risk of severe illness, hospitalization, and complications – and also protects those around you.

The Standing Committee on Vaccination (STIKO) recommends annual flu vaccination for:

All persons aged 60 and over
People with chronic illnesses (e.g., cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, lung diseases)
Employees in medical and social professions
Pregnant women

A special high-dose vaccine is available for older people aged 60 and over. This vaccine offers improved protection because the immune system responds less strongly to the standard vaccine with increasing age.

HPV

Vaccination against human papillomavirus (HPV) effectively protects against infections that can cause cervical cancer, other cancers of the genital area, and genital warts. HPV is widespread and is usually transmitted through sexual contact. Comprehensive vaccination is therefore an important component of preventative healthcare – for all genders.

The Standing Committee on Vaccination (STIKO) recommends HPV vaccination for all children and adolescents – ideally before their first sexual contact. However, vaccination can also be beneficial after the onset of sexual activity, as it continues to offer protection against the most common and dangerous HPV types. Even those who have already been exposed to HPV can still benefit from vaccination, since usually not all relevant virus types have been transmitted.

Recommended age group: Girls and boys from 9 years of age, preferably before their first sexual intercourse.
Vaccination is still possible and advisable even after that.

Shingles (Herpes zoster)

Shingles (herpes zoster) is caused by a reactivation of the varicella-zoster virus, which remains dormant in the body after a chickenpox infection. The risk of developing shingles increases significantly, particularly after the age of 60. The disease can cause severe, persistent nerve pain and complications. Vaccination offers effective protection and can significantly reduce the frequency and severity of shingles and its long-term effects.

The Standing Committee on Vaccination (STIKO) recommends vaccination against shingles for all individuals aged 60 and over. For people with certain underlying health conditions or a weakened immune system, vaccination is recommended starting at age 50. The vaccination is usually administered with an adjuvanted inactivated vaccine in two doses, given at least two to six months apart.

Recommended age group: People aged 60 and over
For those at increased risk: starting at age 50
Vaccine: Two doses with minimum interval

Travel and recommended vaccinations for adults

rabies

Rabies is a viral infectious disease that is almost always fatal and is transmitted to humans through the bite of or contact with infected animals. While the risk is low in Europe, it remains significant in many countries worldwide. People who travel to high-risk regions, have close contact with animals, or are professionally exposed to an increased risk of infection (e.g., veterinarians, laboratory personnel) should consider vaccination. Because rabies vaccination is not a routine vaccination but rather an indicated vaccination, it is specifically recommended for individuals at increased risk of rabies exposure.

The Standing Committee on Vaccination (STIKO) recommends rabies vaccination for individuals at risk due to specific circumstances. These include travelers to countries with a high incidence of rabies, certain occupational groups, and people with frequent contact with bats or other potentially infected animals. The vaccination usually consists of three doses administered on days 0, 7, and 21 or 28. If the risk persists, regular booster vaccinations are recommended.

Recommended groups of people: People with an increased risk of rabies (e.g. travel, occupation, contact with animals)
Indication-based vaccination: Not recommended for everyone, but specifically for at-risk individuals.
Vaccine: Three doses with fixed vaccination intervals

Japanese encephalitis

Japanese encephalitis is a potentially life-threatening infectious disease caused by a virus, primarily transmitted to humans through the bite of infected mosquitoes in rural and agricultural areas of Asia and the western Pacific. While there is no risk in Europe, the danger remains in many parts of Asia. Travelers to endemic areas, those staying in affected regions for extended periods, and those who have occupational contact with mosquitoes should consider vaccination. Vaccination against Japanese encephalitis is not a routine vaccination but is specifically recommended as a travel vaccination for individuals at increased risk.

The Standing Committee on Vaccination (STIKO) recommends vaccination against Japanese encephalitis for individuals traveling to or living in countries where the disease is present. This includes, in particular, travelers to certain regions of Asia and individuals who are sent to risk areas for professional reasons. The vaccination is usually administered in two doses and provides good protection after completion of the primary immunization series. Proof of vaccination may be required for entry into some countries.

Recommended groups of people: People at increased risk for Japanese encephalitis (e.g., travel to endemic areas, work assignments)
Indication-based vaccination: Not recommended for everyone, but specifically for at-risk individuals.

Meningococci

Meningococcus ACWY are bacteria that can cause life-threatening meningococcal infection (e.g., meningitis or septicemia). Transmission usually occurs through droplet infection, such as when coughing or sneezing, and particularly affects children, adolescents, and young adults. While the overall risk in Europe is low, infections occur more frequently in certain regions and under specific conditions—such as in crowded areas or endemic regions. Vaccination is especially recommended for travelers to countries with a known high incidence of meningococcal disease, such as parts of Africa (the so-called "meningitis belt") and at certain religious events. The meningococcus ACWY vaccine is not a routine vaccination but is specifically recommended as a travel vaccine for individuals at increased risk.

STIKO recommendations for adults:

The Standing Committee on Vaccination (STIKO) recommends vaccination against meningococcal disease of serogroups ACWY for individuals traveling to or staying in countries with an increased risk of disease. This includes, among others, pilgrimages to Saudi Arabia (e.g., Hajj or Umrah), stays in the African meningitis belt, and certain study or work-related stays abroad. The vaccination is usually administered as a single dose with an approved conjugate vaccine and provides effective protection after complete vaccination. Proof of current meningococcal ACWY vaccination is required for entry into some countries – particularly Saudi Arabia.

Recommended groups of people: People at increased risk of meningococcal ACWY infection (e.g. pilgrims, extended stays in endemic areas, work assignments)
Indication-based vaccination: Not recommended for everyone, but specifically for at-risk individuals.
Vaccine: Single vaccination with an approved conjugate vaccine (ACWY)

Hepatitis A

The Standing Committee on Vaccination (STIKO) recommends vaccination against hepatitis A for individuals at increased risk of infection. This applies particularly to travelers to countries with medium to high hepatitis A prevalence, such as parts of Africa, Asia, South America, and Eastern Europe, as well as individuals who live there for extended periods or are posted there for work. Vaccination is also recommended for people with certain underlying health conditions or those with occupational exposure to potentially infectious material. The vaccination is generally administered in two doses; the first dose provides good initial protection, while the second ensures long-term protection. Some countries require proof of hepatitis A vaccination for entry.

Recommended groups of people: People at increased risk for hepatitis A (e.g., travel to endemic areas, work assignments, certain underlying medical conditions or occupational exposure)
Indication-based vaccination: Not recommended for everyone, but specifically for at-risk individuals.
Vaccine: Two vaccinations with an approved inactivated vaccine (the second dose for long-term protection)

Yellow fever

Yellow fever is a potentially life-threatening infectious disease caused by a virus, primarily transmitted to humans through the bite of infected mosquitoes in tropical regions of Africa and South America. While there is no risk in Europe, the danger remains high in many parts of the world. Travelers to endemic areas, individuals spending extended periods in tropical regions, and those who have occupational contact with mosquitoes should consider vaccination. Yellow fever vaccination is not a routine vaccination but is specifically recommended as a travel vaccination for individuals at increased risk.

The Standing Committee on Vaccination (STIKO) recommends yellow fever vaccination for people traveling to or living in countries where yellow fever is present. This includes, in particular, travelers to certain regions of Africa and South America, as well as people who are sent to risk areas for professional reasons. The vaccination is usually administered once and, in most cases, provides lifelong protection. Proof of yellow fever vaccination is required for entry into some countries.

Recommended groups of people: People with an increased risk of yellow fever (e.g., travel to endemic areas, work assignments)
Indication-based vaccination: Not recommended for everyone, but specifically for at-risk individuals.
Vaccine: Usually a single vaccination with an approved live vaccine

Dengue

Dengue fever is a potentially severe infectious disease caused by a virus, primarily transmitted to humans through the bite of infected mosquitoes (mainly of the genus Aedes) in tropical and subtropical regions worldwide, particularly in Asia, Latin America, Africa, and the Pacific. There is currently no risk in Europe, but the danger remains in many travel destinations. Travelers to endemic areas, those staying in affected regions for extended periods, or those with frequent mosquito contact should be aware of preventative measures. Dengue vaccination is only available to a limited extent in Germany and is recommended as a travel vaccination for certain risk groups.

The Standing Committee on Vaccination (STIKO) recommends dengue vaccination for individuals traveling to or living in countries with a high risk of infection, especially for extended stays or repeated trips. The vaccination is specifically approved for individuals with a prior dengue infection and should be administered after an individual risk assessment. While proof of dengue vaccination is not currently required for entry into some countries, vaccination may still be advisable for certain groups.

Recommended groups of people: People at increased risk of dengue fever (e.g., travel to endemic areas, work assignments, voluntary service, repeated stays, pre-existing conditions)

Indication-based vaccination: Not recommended for everyone, but specifically for at-risk individuals.

Vaccine: The vaccination consists of several doses of an approved vaccine and is primarily intended for people with a proven previous dengue infection.

Chikungunya

Chikungunya is a viral infection, often accompanied by severe joint pain, that is primarily transmitted to humans through the bite of infected Aedes mosquitoes in tropical and subtropical regions of Africa, Asia, Latin America, and the western Pacific. While there is no significant risk in Europe, the danger remains in many travel destinations. Those most at risk include travelers to endemic areas, individuals staying in affected regions for extended periods, and people who have frequent contact with mosquitoes, whether for work or personal reasons. An effective vaccine is now available for these groups. Nevertheless, protective measures against mosquito bites should not be neglected by individuals traveling to or staying in countries with an increased risk of infection.

Recommended groups of people: People at increased risk for Chikungunya (e.g., travel to endemic areas, work assignments, longer stays)

typhus

Typhoid fever is a bacterial infectious disease caused by the bacterium Salmonella Typhi. Transmission occurs primarily through contaminated water and food, especially in regions with inadequate hygiene and sanitation. While the risk of infection is very low in Germany, an elevated risk remains in parts of Africa, Asia, and Central and South America. Travelers to these regions, particularly for extended stays or under basic travel conditions, should consider vaccination. Typhoid vaccination is not a routine vaccination but is specifically recommended as a travel vaccination for individuals at increased risk.

STIKO recommendations for adults regarding typhoid fever:

The Standing Committee on Vaccination (STIKO) recommends typhoid vaccination for people who travel to or live in countries with a high prevalence of typhoid.
This includes, in particular, travelers staying in basic hygienic conditions, people who are sent to risk areas for work, and people who have close contact with the local population.
The vaccination can be administered as an oral vaccine (live vaccine) or as an injectable vaccine (inactivated vaccine).
Proof of vaccination is usually not required for entry, but may be advisable depending on the destination.

Recommended groups of people: People at increased risk of typhoid fever (e.g., travel to endemic areas, extended stays, work assignments under basic conditions)

Indication-based vaccination: Not recommended for everyone, but specifically for at-risk individuals.

Vaccine: Oral vaccine (live vaccine) or injectable vaccine (inactivated vaccine)

cholera

Cholera is an acute intestinal infection caused by bacteria (Vibrio cholerae), primarily transmitted through contaminated water or food. The risk of infection for travelers from Europe is very low, but increases during stays in unsanitary conditions, humanitarian missions, or disaster situations. Cholera vaccination is not routinely recommended, but is primarily considered for specific risk groups and in particular operational situations.

STIKO recommendations for adults regarding cholera:

The Standing Committee on Vaccination (STIKO) recommends cholera vaccination for people who travel to areas with known cholera prevalence and are at increased risk there, especially under very poor hygienic conditions.
The vaccine is available as an oral vaccine (inactivated vaccine).
Proof of vaccination is not required for entry into most countries, but may be required in exceptional cases.

Recommended groups of people: People at increased risk of cholera (e.g., in humanitarian missions, prolonged stays in poor hygienic conditions, certain professional assignments)

Indication-based vaccination: Not recommended for everyone, but specifically for particularly vulnerable individuals.

Vaccine: Oral vaccine with approved inactivated vaccine

Travel and recommended vaccinations for children

Traveling with children to regions with an increased risk of infection requires particularly careful preparation, as children are often more susceptible to many pathogens than adults. Special recommendations also apply to travel and recommended vaccinations for children, depending on their age, health status, and individual risk. Therefore, vaccination decisions for children should never be made in a blanket fashion. Comprehensive medical consultation for parents is essential to ensure the best possible vaccination protection and to weigh the risks. Only in this way can it be individually assessed which vaccinations are necessary and advisable for travel preparation – and which might be unnecessary or even contraindicated.

Back to overview page

Book an appointment