October 27, 2026, 7:28 pm | Read time: 5 minutes
COVID-19 numbers are rising again, and new virus variants are circulating. But how significant is the threat in fall 2026? Who should get vaccinated, what protective measures are sensible–and what has become of the well-known COVID-19 experts? FITBOOK answers the most important questions.
The pandemic is years behind us, but the coronavirus hasn’t disappeared. Especially in fall and winter, the number of infections can increase again. Currently, there is indeed a rise in cases, yet the Robert Koch Institute (RKI) still assesses virus activity in Germany as low. Nevertheless, it’s worth knowing the key recommendations–particularly for older people and those at higher risk for severe illness.
Are COVID-19 Numbers Rising Again in the Fall?
Yes, reported infections have recently increased slightly. In the week of October 12 to 18, 2026, 888 COVID-19 cases were registered nationwide–about five percent more than the previous week. However, according to the RKI, there is currently no talk of a major wave of infections: Virus activity remains at a low level.1
A look back shows how different the situation was during the pandemic: In October 2020, the RKI registered 35,698 new COVID-19 cases within a week. A direct comparison is only partially possible, though. Today, much less testing is done, so many infections are not officially recorded.
The fact that COVID-19 occurs more frequently in fall and winter is partly because people spend more time indoors and ventilate less often. This makes it easier for viruses to spread. Unlike the flu, SARS-CoV-2 has not yet followed a fixed annual rhythm. New waves of infection are also possible in the summer.
Should I Get Vaccinated Against COVID-19 Now?
That mainly depends on age, health status, and personal risk for severe illness. The Standing Committee on Vaccination (STIKO) adjusted its recommendations for 2026. For healthy adults, an annual standard booster is recommended starting at age 75. Special recommendations apply to people with certain underlying conditions, immune deficiencies, or other increased risks. Vaccination may also be considered for certain healthcare workers and close contacts of particularly vulnerable individuals.
The vaccination should ideally occur in late summer or early fall. Those unsure whether a booster is advisable should seek medical advice. Current recommendations can be found on the RKI’s COVID-19 vaccination page.2
Are There New COVID-19 Variants?
Yes. The coronavirus continuously changes, leading to new variants and sublineages. In fall 2026, the recombinant variant XFG was detected among the virus lines studied. Other variants are also circulating.
A new variant is not automatically more dangerous than its predecessors. Key factors include how well it spreads, whether it can partially evade the immune system, and whether it leads to more severe illnesses. The RKI and the World Health Organization (WHO) are continuously monitoring developments.
Is There Enough COVID-19 Vaccine?
The COVID-19 vaccination is now part of regular medical care. For the 2026/2027 season, the Comirnaty vaccine from BioNTech/Pfizer is intended for people aged 12 and older, according to the National Association of Statutory Health Insurance Physicians (KBV). It is adapted to a virus variant.3
Doctors’ offices order the vaccine through their pharmacies. Whether a vaccination appointment is available at short notice depends on the specific practice and local availability. Those wishing to get vaccinated should contact their primary care physician directly.
Are Masks and Social Distancing Still Sensible?
There is no longer a general requirement to wear masks or maintain social distancing. However, such measures can still be sensible to protect oneself and others.
Anyone with symptoms of a respiratory infection should stay home if possible and reduce contact–especially with older or pre-existing condition individuals. If contact cannot be avoided, a well-fitting mask can reduce the risk of infection. Regular ventilation and thorough handwashing are still recommended.
A fixed distance rule of an arm’s length is not considered a general guideline today. It is more important to consider the situation and individual risk.
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Do I Still Need the Corona-Warn-App?
The Corona-Warn-App was put into standby mode on June 1, 2023, and is no longer regularly available in app stores. Those who still have it installed on their smartphones can continue to access stored vaccination certificates. Therefore, the app does not need to be automatically deleted.
However, it is no longer used for active contact tracing. Those needing a digital vaccination certificate should check if it is still stored in the app and secure it elsewhere if necessary. More information is available from the German government.
What Are the COVID-19 Experts of the Past Doing Today?
The former president of the Robert Koch Institute, Lothar Wieler, moved to the Hasso Plattner Institute in Potsdam in 2023. There, he works as a professor of Digital Global Public Health. His topics include digital health and how health data can be better utilized.
Virologist Christian Drosten remains the director of the Institute of Virology at Berlin’s Charité. His NDR podcast “Coronavirus Update,” co-hosted with science journalist Korinna Hennig, ended in late 2022. During the pandemic, the format provided scientific insights into the coronavirus and explained them to a broad audience.