Vaccination is not compulsory in Germany, but the recommendations of the Standing Commission on Vaccination (STIKO), which advises the health authorities of the German states at the Robert Koch Institute in Berlin, are. These recommendations are regularly reviewed and updated.
Vaccination recommendations of the STIKO
The STIKO recommends vaccinations against:
- Diphtheria
- Measles
- Rubella
- Mumps
- Tetanus (tetanus)
- Pertussis (whooping cough)
- Polio (polio)
- Haemophilus influenzae type b (purulent meningitis; Hib).
- Hepatitis B (liver inflammation / jaundice).
- Pneumococcus
- Rotaviruses
- Meningococcus C
- Chickenpox (varicella)
Older people are also advised flu vaccination, people in medical professions in addition to vaccination against hepatitis A and B. Vaccination against cervical cancer (HPV) is recommended for girls and boys aged 9 to 14 years.
Also vaccinate before traveling
It is important to inform yourself about possible diseases before planned travels. The family doctor should therefore be consulted in any case before traveling – especially abroad – and for all questions about vaccination.
