Introduction: What is the flu, and what does the 2025/2026 flu season mean?
Influenza, commonly called the flu, is an acute viral infection of the upper and lower respiratory tract. It is caused by influenza viruses of types A, B, and, rarely, C. Unlike a common cold (usually caused by rhinoviruses, coronaviruses, or other pathogens), true influenza is often more severe and systemic. Typical symptoms begin suddenly: High fever (38.5–40 °C), chills, severe headache and body aches, dry cough, sore throat, extreme exhaustion, and muscle pain that can last for days to weeks. Complications such as bacterial superinfections (pneumonia), myocarditis, encephalitis, or exacerbation of chronic conditions (asthma, COPD, diabetes) are particularly common in high-risk groups: people aged 60 and over, children under 5, pregnant women, immunosuppressed people, and people with pre-existing conditions. Transmission occurs primarily through the air via droplets and aerosols when coughing, sneezing, or speaking, but also via the fecal-oral route or contaminated surfaces (fomite transmission). The incubation period is 1–4 days, and the contagious period is 5–7 days (longer in immunosuppressed people). Flu is highly contagious: On average, one person infects 1.3–1.8 others (basic reproduction number R0). The flu season – or season of acute respiratory infections (ARI) – covers the period from October to April in the Northern Hemisphere. During this period, incidence rates rise seasonally because cold temperatures, dry air, and crowded indoor spaces facilitate virus transmission. In addition to influenza, RSV, SARS-CoV-2, rhinoviruses, parainfluenza viruses, adenoviruses, and hMPV circulate – often in parallel in a “tripledemic” (flu + RSV + COVID-19). The 2025/2026 season is exceptional: It began 3–4 weeks earlier than usual (from week 48/2025), driven by a highly mutated variant of the influenza A virus: A(H3N2) subclade K (also called J.2.4.1). This subclade has spread rapidly since August 2025 because it differs greatly antigenically from previous strains and evades population immunity. Experts describe a “perfect storm” situation: an early start, greater severity among older people, and low vaccination rates in some countries. According to the World Health Organization (WHO) – Influenza Global Situation, A(H3N2) subclade K dominates worldwide, with high activity in Europe, North America, and Asia. In Europe, the season is more intense than in 2024/2025, with earlier peaks and increased hospitalizations. Why is this relevant? Every year, 5–20% of the EU population contracts influenza, with 7,000–12,000 deaths in Europe alone. Economic costs: billions due to lost work and treatment. In Germany alone, more than 80,000 laboratory-confirmed cases had been reported by mid-January during the 2025/2026 season, with 225 deaths (mostly people aged >65). This article examines the current pathogens, official data, evidence-based prevention, and measures to take when ill - based on the latest reports from the Robert Koch Institute (RKI) - Influenza Surveillance and the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC) - Weekly Respiratory Virus Update. The aim is to provide you with well-founded information and motivate you to take action. Let us move seamlessly on to the current illnesses to paint a clear picture of the situation.Current respiratory illnesses in 2026: Viruses, symptoms, and risks
The 2025/2026 flu season shows clear dominance: Influenza A virus, specifically the A(H3N2) subclade K subtype, accounts for up to 90% of flu cases. This variant has been widespread since autumn 2025 and causes typical symptoms: sudden high fever, severe cough, body aches, and extreme fatigue. Older adults and people with pre-existing conditions are at higher risk of severe illness, such as pneumonia. RSV (Respiratory Syncytial Virus) is also circulating widely, especially among babies and young children (bronchiolitis) and older adults (pneumonia). Symptoms: Wheezing, cough, and shortness of breath. In week 3/2026, RSV activity is high but no longer increasing (ECDC). SARS-CoV-2 (COVID-19) remains at a low level: a positivity rate of less than 10%, with a stable situation. Symptoms resemble the flu, often with loss of smell or taste and a risk of Long COVID. Other common pathogens:- Rhinoviruses (approx. 25–30% of respiratory infections): Mild runny nose, sore throat, and sneezing - often in schools and kindergartens.
- Human metapneumovirus (hMPV): Cough and fever, similar to RSV.
- Parainfluenza viruses (types 1–4): Croup in children.
- Adenoviruses: In addition to respiratory symptoms, they can also cause conjunctivitis or gastrointestinal problems.
| Pathogen | Share (%) | Important symptoms | Affected groups | Current status (January 2026) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Influenza A(H3N2) subclade K | ~90 | High fever, cough, body aches | Older adults, children | High, peak partially surpassed |
| RSV | Medium | Wheezing, cough, shortness of breath | Babies, older adults | High, stable |
| SARS-CoV-2 | Low | Fever, cough, fatigue | Everyone | Low, stable |
| Rhinoviruses | 25–30 | Runny nose, sneezing | Children | Common |
Official statistics on flu and respiratory diseases in Germany, the EU, and the UK
As of mid-January 2026 (based on RKI, ECDC, UKHSA, and WHO):- Germany (RKI): More than 80,000 laboratory-confirmed flu cases since the start of the season. Incidence high in weeks 1–3/2026. Hospitalizations +20–30% compared with 2024/2025. Deaths: approximately 225 (mainly among people over 65). RSV and COVID-19 are contributing: RSV elevated, COVID low. All notifiable diseases, including influenza, are listed in the RKI's overview table: Notifiable diseases and pathogens.
- EU/EEA (ECDC): Influenza activity is high, but the peak appears to have been surpassed in most countries (week 3/2026). Positivity 25–39%. A(H3N2) dominant. RSV high, COVID low. 7,000–12,000 flu deaths annually.
- UK (UKHSA): Flu activity is declining in week 3/2026 (January 15), but is still circulating at moderate levels. Positivity rates and hospitalizations are declining, but remain higher than last year. RSV and COVID-19 remain stably low. Data from the National Flu and COVID-19 Surveillance Report Week 3 2026 show a decline but continued pressure on hospitals. Influenza positivity: 11.7–11.9% (through January 11), down from 14.1% the previous week. Hospitalization rate: falling to ~5.37 per 100,000 inhabitants.
| Region | Flu cases/incidence | Hospitalizations | Deaths | RSV/COVID status |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Germany | >80,000 cases | +20–30% | ~225 | RSV high, COVID low |
| EU/EEA | Positivity 25–39% | +20% | 7–12k/year | Peak surpassed, RSV high |
| UK | Declining (week 3, 11.7–11.9% positivity) | Declining (~5.37/100,000) | Moderate | RSV stable, COVID low |
Prevention: The best way to combat flu and colds
Prevention is the most effective protection - it reduces the risk of illness by up to 60% and mitigates severe cases. The measures are based on recommendations from the RKI, ECDC, and WHO. By implementing them step by step, we can make the season safer.
Vaccination - the most important pillar: Annual flu vaccination protects against severe disease (VE 40–60%, against A(H3N2) subclade K approximately 41%). It is particularly recommended for high-risk groups (older people, children, pregnant women, and people with chronic illnesses). More than 18 million doses are available in Germany - get vaccinated! Studies show that vaccinated people are hospitalized less often.
Hygiene and everyday behavior: Washing your hands regularly (for at least 20 seconds with soap) reduces transmission by 16–21% (Cochrane Review). Sneeze/blow your nose into the crook of your elbow, keep your distance (at least 1.5 m), and air out rooms several times a day. Wear an FFP2 mask in crowds or when near people who are ill. These simple habits can halve infections.
Disinfection: Regularly cleaning surfaces (door handles, handrails) and disinfecting hands minimizes contact transmission. Virucidal products are ideal for this, as they reliably kill viruses. For thorough surface disinfection at home or in the office, proven products from our range are suitable: surface disinfectant. Practical for everyday use: hand disinfectant, which works quickly and is gentle on the skin.
Lifestyle: A balanced diet (plenty of fruit, vegetables, and vitamin D), regular exercise, sufficient sleep, and stress reduction strengthen the immune system. Avoid crowds during the peak phase. Combine these tips to build a strong barrier.
This combination of vaccination, hygiene, and disinfection is the best protection - easy to implement and highly effective. If you do become ill, however, acting quickly is crucial - find out more in the next section.
What should you do if you are already ill?
Act immediately at the first symptoms (fever, cough, body aches): Stay at home to avoid infecting others. Drink plenty of fluids (tea, water, soups), get plenty of rest, and avoid physical exertion. Proven remedies such as paracetamol or ibuprofen can help with fever and pain (dose according to the package insert). If influenza is suspected: Within the first 48 hours, a doctor may prescribe oseltamivir (Tamiflu) - it is particularly effective for high-risk patients (RKI recommendation). This antiviral shortens the duration of the illness and reduces complications when used early.
When should you see a doctor? Immediately if you have: a fever above 39 °C lasting longer than 3 days, severe shortness of breath, chest pain, confusion, persistent vomiting, or if you belong to a high-risk group. For children: In case of rapid breathing, blue lips, or lethargy, go to the emergency department immediately. Early diagnosis using a rapid test can help select the right treatment.
You can help at home with saline inhalations (for coughs), humid air (humidifier), and honey tea (for coughs from the age of 1). Make sure to get enough sleep and eat light foods. For long-term immune system support, we recommend our article: Flu and cold season: Tips for a strong immune system - with nutrition tips, vitamins, and lifestyle changes. This will help you recover more quickly and avoid secondary infections.
Conclusion
The 2025/2026 flu season presents us with challenges - an early and intense course driven by A(H3N2) subclade K, high case numbers in Germany, the EU, and the UK, as well as the burden of RSV and COVID-19. But the good news is that we have proven tools at our disposal to effectively protect ourselves and our loved ones. Vaccination, consistent hygiene, and disinfection dramatically reduce the risk and mitigate severe illness. Many people get through the season with no symptoms or only mild symptoms thanks to these measures. By staying informed and taking action, we can minimize the impact.
Use the latest data from RKI, ECDC, and UKHSA to stay informed - the peak has been surpassed in many regions, but caution is still advised. Every vaccinated person, every disinfected handle, and every ventilated room helps slow the spread and ease the burden on the healthcare system. It is never too late to take action: get vaccinated, follow the hygiene rules, and turn to proven products when needed. Remember: Prevention is not just protection, but also freedom - for a carefree winter.
Ultimately, it is about more than just health - it is about quality of life, family, and everyday life without fear. With knowledge and the right steps, we can get through this season and emerge from it stronger. Stay healthy and optimistic!
