October 15, 2025, 6:17 pm | Read time: 5 minutes
You might have noticed it yourself: a runny nose, a scratchy throat, and a persistent cough on the horizon. You’re not alone—respiratory infections are spreading rapidly across Germany. A sharp increase in acute respiratory illnesses (ARE) is leading to overcrowded doctors’ offices and a growing number of sick notes. Which pathogens are dominating the infections, which symptoms indicate which viral infection, and how can you effectively protect yourself now with targeted measures such as vaccinations, hygiene, and early diagnostics?
Infection Wave in Fall—Nearly One in Ten Affected
The cold season is back—and with it, a wave of respiratory illnesses. According to recent surveys by the Robert Koch Institute (RKI), around 7.5 million people in Germany were affected by a newly emerged acute respiratory illness in the 40th calendar week of 2025. This corresponds to about 8,900 illnesses per 100,000 inhabitants—a high figure that highlights the intensity of the current infection situation.1
While the number of influenza-like infections (ILI) has remained stable, the COVID-19 incidence fluctuates at a comparatively low level, with about 400 cases per 100,000 inhabitants. The estimates come from the RKI project GrippeWeb, which is based on self-reports from registered participants.2
Three Pathogens Dominate Infections
Several viruses are currently responsible for the high disease activity; foremost among them are the well-known rhinoviruses. They currently account for about 35 percent of all infections and are considered the main cause of classic cold symptoms. SARS-CoV-2 is still circulating and is responsible for about 18 percent of respiratory illnesses. However, the number of COVID-19 cases remains lower compared to the previous year. The classic flu (influenza) currently accounts for only about nine percent—typically, the flu wave begins later in the fall or winter.3
“Stratus”–the Currently Dominant Corona Variant
Among the circulating corona variants, the Omicron line XFG, also known as “Stratus,” currently dominates. With a share of about 80 to 82 percent, it is the most frequently detected variant. The media nickname “Frankenstein variant” refers to the genetic mosaic of numerous mutations, not to increased danger.
This variant spreads particularly effectively through the upper respiratory tract, leading to a high infection rate.
Differences in Symptoms—Which Signs Should Be Taken Seriously
Many affected individuals wonder: cold, flu, corona, or RSV? Due to similar symptoms such as fever, cough, or body aches, distinguishing between them is difficult. However, typical patterns can be recognized:
- Corona is more often associated with fever than with a simple cold.
- Influenza usually begins abruptly and severely.
- RSV can be particularly noticeable due to a long-lasting cough, sometimes over several weeks.
Whether a more detailed examination is necessary depends on the individual’s health condition and the severity of the symptoms. Especially for risk groups or when targeted treatment is an option, a PCR test is the most reliable method for pathogen determination. Antigen rapid tests provide meaningful results, especially with a high viral load. If there is still suspicion of an infection, a second test should be conducted after two days, or a PCR diagnostic test should be chosen directly.
For Pathogens and Infections: Check and Update Vaccination Status
Given the multitude of circulating viruses, experts currently strongly advise checking vaccination status. Especially risk groups should heed the recommendations of the Standing Committee on Vaccination (STIKO):
- Corona and flu vaccination: A booster is recommended for adults with chronic illnesses and people over 60. The current corona vaccination is also effective against the dominant “Stratus” variant.
- RSV vaccination: A one-time RSV vaccination is recommended for those over 75 and for chronically severely ill individuals over 60 before the main season (October to March). There is a special antibody preparation for infants for a one-time administration in the first RSV season.
Infections That Frequently Affect Children
Watch Out for These COVID-19 Symptoms Now
Doctor Visits—Significant Differences by Region and Age
The strain on health systems is also evident in the number of doctor visits. Brandenburg recently recorded the highest nationwide value with 2,007 doctor visits per 100,000 inhabitants. Hamburg had the fewest doctor contacts, with only 571 visits per 100,000. Particularly affected are young children between zero and four years: In this age group, the rate was recently 3,303 doctor visits per 100,000 inhabitants—and rising.4
A look at hospital admissions shows that older people and young children are currently particularly affected. Most recently, people over 80 years had to be hospitalized for severe respiratory illnesses—about 33 out of 100,000 in this age group. The case numbers have also increased among the youngest. For both groups, good protection is particularly important to avoid severe courses as much as possible.5
What the Data Also Shows
The current cold season began during a phase of increased corona activity and was accompanied by additional flu and RSV waves at the turn of the year. Although coronavirus outbreaks have become generally less frequent than the previous year, the number of flu outbreaks has doubled. RSV infections have also increased slightly. These developments show how important it is to counteract in time—for example, through vaccinations, quick action in case of disease outbreaks, and good protective measures in nursing homes, clinics, and other sensitive areas.
It is recommended to closely coordinate outbreak management with local health authorities and regularly train staff. Vaccinations according to STIKO recommendations and rapid identification of outbreaks can help contain more severe disease courses and control the infection situation.
Take the Infection Situation Seriously—But Act Calmly
This fall, a particularly large number of people are affected by respiratory illnesses—mainly caused by cold viruses, the coronavirus, and RSV. Even though many infections are mild, older people, young children, and individuals with pre-existing conditions are at increased risk for more severe courses. Therefore, it is important to take symptoms such as cough, fever, or sore throat seriously and seek medical advice if in doubt. Additionally, it helps to protect oneself well—for example, with vaccinations, regular hand washing, and a responsible approach to initial symptoms.