Jena, October 04, 2026 – As the new cold and flu season begins, medical professionals and health insurance companies are strongly advising vaccination. Jena-based infectiologist Mathias Pletz, in particular, emphasizes the necessity of immunological protection for older individuals.
- Topic: Flu vaccination for the 2026/2027 season
- Expert: Prof. Dr. Mathias Pletz (Jena University Hospital)
- Recommendation: Urgent call for vaccination, especially for high-risk groups
- Goal: Mitigation of severe disease progression and prevention of complications
Urgent appeal for vaccination for high-risk groups
According to current data from health insurance providers, the willingness to get vaccinated in Thüringen has recently declined. In the previous season, not even one in two citizens over the age of 60 received an influenza vaccination. However, Jena-based infectiologist Mathias Pletz underscores the high importance of this protection. Although viruses change continuously, meaning effectiveness can vary from year to year, the shot offers a decisive advantage: while it does not prevent every infection, it drastically mitigates severe courses of the disease.
Warning of serious complications
The flu is not a simple cold. Pletz warns of the far-reaching health risks that an infection can entail. According to his assessment, the virus can trigger life-threatening complications such as heart attacks, strokes, or severe cardiac arrhythmias. The risk of such cardiovascular incidents exists not only during the acute illness but persists even after the flu has supposedly been overcome. In this context, the Uniklinik Jena also reminds the public of the importance of stable basic healthcare during the autumn and winter months.
Background: Why the annual flu vaccination is important
Because influenza viruses are constantly changing, the World Health Organization (WHO) adjusts the composition of the vaccine annually. Medical institutions such as the Jena University Hospital serve as important regional information centers to educate the public on the necessity of immunization and to reduce severe hospitalizations during the winter wave.
Source:
Before the flu season: Jena infectiologist Pletz advises flu vaccination
Transparency note: This article was created automatically, editorially reviewed, and expanded with AI support.