Recommended booster shots for high-risk individuals, as suggested by Stiko

The Stiko commission, Germany's vaccination advisory body, has made a significant decision regarding booster shots for Covid-19 vaccinations. Currently, there is no general recommendation for booster vaccinations based on age groups. However, the commission has recommended booster shots for at-risk patients, including those with immune deficiencies or diseases where the immune system is regulated medicinally.

The decision to recommend booster shots for certain risk groups was made after a thorough review of all scientific data on the question. Stiko head Thomas Mertens confirmed this, stating that the commission has completed its review.

In addition to at-risk patients, people over 80 years old and those at particular risk can currently receive a booster shot. However, there is potential for a wider recommendation for specific age groups, such as those aged 60, 70, or 80, if frequent and severe Covid-19 infections occur in older age groups.

Fred Zepp, a member of Stiko, made a statement about the potential for a general vaccination recommendation for certain age groups based on the occurrence of frequent and severe Covid-19 infections in older age groups. The commission is currently examining this possibility with the support of the Robert Koch Institute, which is helping to assess the current state of Covid-19 infections in older age groups.

It is worth noting that a corresponding recommendation for booster shots was not available until now. However, the STIKO might issue a general recommendation for booster vaccinations for people aged 75 years and older, as they have been advising standard vaccination for this group since August 2024. There are also recommendations for second boosters for those over 60 years based on certain practice guidelines.

In conclusion, the Stiko commission has recommended booster shots for at-risk patients and those over 80 years old. While there is no general recommendation for booster vaccinations based on age groups currently, the commission is examining whether the current state of research justifies a general vaccination recommendation for certain age groups.