Vaccines under the microscope: safety, side effects and recommendations

Vaccines under the microscope: safety, side effects and recommendations

Vaccinations are a central issue that affects not only the health of the individual, but also that of the entire population. Today we take a look at the approval and control of vaccines, which in Germany is centrally regulated by the Standing Vaccination Commission (STIKO) at the Robert Koch Institute (RKI). According to a recent podcast from BR.de, vaccines are administered to many healthy people to ensure they are effective and safe.

But we also know that side effects of vaccines are always problematic and are often viewed critically. This is where strict approval procedures and extensive controls come into play. Dr. Inas Abdelgawad, Head of the Havelland Health Authority, and Prof. Marco Cavalieri, Head of the Biological Health Hazards Department at the European Medicines Agency (EMA), emphasize that a high level of safety is guaranteed.

Safe vaccination recommendations from STIKO

The STIKO formulates evidence-based vaccination recommendations that are important for the medical profession and the public. They evaluate preclinical and clinical studies using the GRADE methodology and aim to maximize the benefits of vaccination for both individuals and the population. Vaccine complications are reportable, while normal vaccine reactions are not, as detailed on NCBI.

The STIKO recommendations are considered a medical standard that is decisive for medical action. Every year, the STIKO publishes updated vaccination recommendations in the Epidemiological Bulletin, which shows that it continuously adapts to the latest scientific findings. In Germany, for example, 3,570 suspected cases of vaccination side effects were reported in 2018. There was no causal link to 22 deaths, increasing confidence in the safety of the vaccines.

The benefits of vaccinations for everyone

Vaccinations not only provide individual protection, but also herd protection, which can help eradicate certain diseases. A well-coordinated vaccination program is essential, especially in times like the COVID-19 pandemic. Immunodeficient patients can usually receive inactivated vaccines, but live vaccines are often contraindicated. Here too, STIKO has published specific application instructions to ensure that vaccinations are used in a targeted and safe manner.

The STIKO also takes into account the epidemiological circumstances at the population level and optimizes vaccination strategies accordingly. The safety of vaccines in Germany is considered to be very high, as 30 to 38 million vaccinations are carried out every year, which underlines the importance of a solid vaccination strategy, as the Federal Medical Association informs.

With these findings and the experience from comprehensive studies, it is clear: vaccinations are not only an important tool in the healthcare system, but also a contribution to the health of our society. All that remains to be said is: If you can accept the little spade, you should do so - it's worth it for everyone!