Free flu and corona vaccinations from September 26th in Oberhavel!

Free flu and corona vaccinations from September 26th in Oberhavel!

Autumn is just around the corner and with it comes the time for flu vaccinations. The Oberhavel Health Department reacted early and is setting up free vaccination consultations from September 26th. These take place every Friday from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. on Havelstrasse in Oranienburg, and prior registration is not required. The main target group are people aged 60 and over, pregnant women and people with chronic illnesses or contact with risk groups. The health department would like to increase willingness to vaccinate and make it easier to access these important vaccinations. According to maz-online.de, the vaccination rate against flu among people over 60 in Oberhavel is only around 50%, well below the WHO target of 75%.

Doch warum sind diese Impfungen so wichtig? Influenza is one of the most widespread infectious diseases. While younger people usually recover quickly, older people are at increased risk of serious illnesses that can even be fatal. An annual flu vaccination booster helps reduce the risk of infection. The Federal Center for Health Education and the Standing Vaccination Commission (STIKO) recommend vaccination especially for those aged 60 and over.

Important information about vaccination

The new corona vaccines, which will also be available from September 26th, are adapted to the virus variants currently circulating. Ideally, those who want to be vaccinated should get vaccinated in October or by mid-December, as the vaccines need around two weeks to develop a full protective effect. The costs of the vaccinations are covered by statutory health insurance, and it is advisable to bring your insurance certificate and, if available, your vaccination certificate with you to the vaccination.

• Impfsprechstunden: Freitag von 9 bis 12 Uhr
• Standort: Havelstraße, Oranienburg
• Zielgruppe: Menschen ab 60 Jahren, Schwangere, Personen mit chronischen Erkrankungen
• Keine Anmeldung nötig

In other European countries it can be seen that the vaccination rate among people over 65 is significantly higher: in Denmark it was 78%, in Ireland 76% and in Portugal 72%. The EU average, however, is only 47%. In Germany, the vaccination rate fell from 44% to 40% compared to the previous season. There is a clear need for action here to make people aware of vaccinations. A look at the figures documented in the Federal Statistical Office illustrates the regional inequality.

The health department appeals to everyone affected to get a vaccination early. Ultimately, it's not just about protecting yourself, but also about protecting vulnerable groups in our society. If you have any questions, the health department is available on 03301-6013769. More information is also available online at oberhavel.de/Impfen.