Vaccinations: the basics

In short: Vaccinations train the immune system to recognise certain pathogens without having to go through the disease. They protect the vaccinated person and help protect others.

In more detail: With a high vaccination rate pathogens spread poorly (herd immunity).

In detail

• Live and inactivated vaccines: Weakened or killed pathogens or components.
• mRNA vaccines: Deliver a blueprint for a protein to which the immune system reacts.
• Boosters: Some vaccinations must be repeated after years, such as tetanus.
• Standard vaccinations: Measles, tetanus, diphtheria, whooping cough and more according to the vaccination schedule (STIKO).
• Vaccination record: Documents all vaccinations; a photo as backup is sensible.
• Side effects: Redness, tiredness, mild fever are common and fade; severe reactions are rare.
• Advice: Family doctor or health office inform about vaccination plans and travel.
• Flu: Annual vaccination for risk groups (erkaeltung-und-grippe-unterscheiden).