2024 flu outbreak in Germany: 12 million cases and 16,000 deaths
By Rachel · 3 min read
Automatically translated from German. · Read original
According to estimates by the Robert Koch Institute (RKI), the 2024 flu epidemic in Germany affected around 12 million people and led to some 16,000 deaths – a scale that underlines the importance of a high vaccination rate.
Key facts at a glance
- According to the RKI, an estimated 12 million people were infected – around 14 per cent of the population – mainly with influenza A(H3N2) viruses. Source: n-tv.de
- Around 105,000 hospitalisations were reported; laboratory-confirmed deaths stand at 2,216, whilst the RKI estimates the figure to be as high as 16,000. Source: tagesschau.de
- According to the RKI, only 34.5 per cent of those aged over 60 had been vaccinated – significantly less than the EU target of 75 per cent. You can check your personal vaccination rate using our percentage calculator. Source: n-tv.de
- The season began in December and peaked in February, which coincides with the school holidays – plan your vaccination around the school holidays. Source: morgenpost.de
- Experts warn that 90 per cent of vulnerable children and two-thirds of high-risk groups remain unprotected. Source: tagesschau.de
2024 flu outbreak in Germany: scale and consequences
The 2024/25 flu season began later than in previous years, but nevertheless reached a considerable scale. It peaked in February, with most cases occurring among older adults and people with underlying health conditions. Source: n-tv.de
| Period | Reported cases | Estimated infections | Hospital admissions | Deaths (laboratory-confirmed) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2024/25 season (Dec.–March) | ≈ 1.2 million | ≈ 12 million | ≈ 105,000 | 2,216 |
These figures illustrate just how quickly the flu outbreak can spread. The majority of infections were caused by subtype A(H3N2), which can lead to severe illness, particularly among the elderly. Source: tagesschau.de
Vaccination protection and at-risk groups
The Standing Committee on Vaccination (STIKO) recommends the flu vaccine in particular for people aged 60 and over, pregnant women, people with chronic conditions and residents of care homes. Despite clear recommendations, the vaccination rate among the over-60s was only 34.5 per cent – well below the EU target of 75 per cent. Source: n-tv.de
Protection from the vaccine ensures that an infection is usually milder and that serious complications occur less frequently. Source: tagesschau.de
You can quickly calculate your personal vaccination rate using our percentage calculator – a useful tool for planning your own healthcare.
What the figures really mean
The high case numbers reflect not only the spread of the virus, but also the gaps in vaccination coverage. “The flu season always comes round; you can basically set your watch by it. Every year, many people die from it and it always leads to a high burden of disease,” says expert Sander. Source: n-tv.de
Mathematically speaking, around one in five people in the at-risk groups fell ill during the season. “We accept that 90 per cent of our at-risk children, or two-thirds of adults who are at risk of severe infection, are not protected,” warns Reinhard Berner, paediatrician and STIKO chair. Source: tagesschau.de
The economic costs of this wave – around 105,000 hospitalisations – can be compared using the gross-to-net calculator to illustrate the net burden on the healthcare system.
Frequently asked questions
How many people were actually affected by the flu in 2024?
The RKI estimates that around 12 million people – roughly 14 per cent of the population – were infected. Source: n-tv.de
Why is the vaccination rate so low?
Only 34.5 per cent of those aged over 60 were vaccinated, even though STIKO recommends the vaccine. The reasons range from a lack of information to perceived access issues. Source: morgenpost.de
Can children be vaccinated against the flu?
Yes, children with certain pre-existing conditions are among the groups for whom vaccination is recommended. The vaccination rate among these children has plateaued at around 10 per cent. Source: tagesschau.de
How long does full protection last after vaccination?
It takes around two weeks for the body to build up full protection after vaccination. It is therefore best to get vaccinated by mid-December. Source: tagesschau.de
Is there a tablet for the flu?
No, the flu is prevented by vaccines; in acute cases, antiviral medicines are used, not over-the-counter tablets. Source: n-tv.de
Sources: n-tv.de · tagesschau.de · morgenpost.de · mdr.de. As at 23 October 2026.
