How to boost your immune system before the holiday parties
Germany is facing a sharp rise in respiratory illnesses as winter 2025 takes hold. Since week 48, influenza cases have surged, with over 4 million infections and more than 1,900 deaths reported. Alongside the flu, colds and RSV are spreading rapidly, affecting millions and putting pressure on healthcare services.
The Robert Koch Institute (RKI) confirmed elevated flu activity from late November, with cases climbing steadily. By early December, around 7.2 million people had already caught seasonal colds, driven by rhinoviruses and other common viruses. RSV infections have also spiked, forming part of a broader wave of respiratory illnesses.
Doctors are closely tracking norovirus and hand, foot, and mouth disease, though current data on outbreaks remains limited. Hand, foot, and mouth disease causes small, painful lesions on the hands, feet, mouth, and sometimes the backside. Meanwhile, avian flu has been detected in regions like Niedersachsen and Sachsen-Anhalt, though this strain does not affect humans. Health officials are urging precautions to slow the spread. Wearing masks and practising good hygiene can help protect vulnerable family members. A balanced diet and sufficient sleep are also recommended to strengthen immunity. For infants under eight months, the RSV vaccine is considered especially critical. Hospitals are bracing for a further influx of patients after the holiday season. The UK is also experiencing a severe flu season, mirroring Germany’s struggles with respiratory infections.
The current wave of illnesses has already led to thousands of hospitalisations and deaths. With cases expected to rise further in January, health authorities continue to stress prevention measures. Vaccinations, hygiene, and early medical advice remain key to reducing the impact of this winter’s outbreaks.
