STIKO Drops Routine COVID Boosters for Healthy Adults Under 75—July 10

Germany’s Standing Vaccination Committee (STIKO) has scrapped its recommendation for COVID-19 boosters for healthy adults, citing widespread immunity across the population. The committee announced Thursday that over 95 percent of German adults now possess hybrid immunity from prior infections or vaccinations, providing sufficient protection against severe disease. Routine boosters now apply only to adults aged 75 and older, plus healthcare workers and people with chronic conditions.

Who still needs COVID boosters under the new rules

Adults aged 75 and older should receive one annual COVID shot in late summer or early fall, according to STIKO’s updated guidance. This raises the age threshold from 60, where it stood previously. Healthcare workers on intensive care units, emergency departments, and nursing home staff remain eligible. People with chronic conditions like diabetes, heart disease, or obesity also qualify for annual shots.

Why the blanket recommendation ended

COVID hospitalizations have dropped sharply since the pandemic ended. In the 2023-24 season, Germany recorded roughly 135,000 COVID hospitalizations, falling to about 77,000 in 2024-25 and around 50,000 in 2025-26. Deaths have followed the same trajectory. The STIKO determined that most adults now carry hybrid immunity from multiple vaccine doses, natural infections, or both, making routine boosters unnecessary for healthy people.

What changes for pregnant women and young people

Healthy pregnant women no longer need boosters unless they have underlying conditions or pregnancy complications like diabetes or high blood pressure. STIKO ended the requirement for baseline immunity, which previously called for at least three antigenic contacts through vaccination or infection. Healthy children and teenagers have not needed COVID shots for some time under existing guidance.

Timing shift to late summer protects against seasonal waves

The committee moved the recommended vaccination window from autumn to late summer or early fall. This timing aligns with when COVID waves typically begin each year in Germany. STIKO noted that vaccine effectiveness wanes significantly over time, making earlier inoculation more effective at protecting vulnerable groups through the winter months.

Final Thoughts

STIKO’s shift reflects Germany’s transition from pandemic emergency measures to endemic disease management. Healthy adults under 75 no longer face a blanket recommendation, but older people and those with chronic illness should still plan annual boosters in late summer.

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