Coronavirus in autumn 2025: Vaccination, variant, symptoms – What do I need to know now?

With the onset of colder weather, the coronavirus is once again coming into sharper focus. Which variant is currently prevalent, what are the typical symptoms – and is vaccination still worthwhile? The combination with the flu vaccine is also causing uncertainty for many. We have summarized the most important answers for you here.

Currently, the Stratus variant (scientifically: XFG) is dominating the infection process. It has already been detected in several countries and is increasingly displacing earlier omicron lineages such as Nimbus (NB.1.8.1). Stratus is considered highly contagious , but causes similarly mild to moderate cases as known subvariants before it. The Robert Koch Institute (RKI) does not currently see an increased risk to public health.

Most infections continue to be mild to moderate – especially in people with basic immunity through vaccinations or previous illnesses. Depending on the region, for example in metropolitan areas or where there is a lot of travel, the course of the illness can vary.

Typical symptoms of a coronavirus infection persist:

• sore throat
• Cough
• Sniffles
• Fatigue and body aches
• Headache

Rarely occur:

• Fever
• Loss of taste or smell

The average duration of illness for a coronavirus infection is usually five to ten days , but this can vary depending on immune status and age. In the case of reinfections, which are more common, the symptoms are often milder and the duration of illness can be shorter.

Since the symptoms often resemble those of a cold or flu, a test can provide clarity – especially in cases of more severe symptoms or close contact with infected individuals. More severe cases still primarily affect older people or those with pre-existing conditions.

Since the symptoms of Corona, flu and the common cold overlap considerably, a clear distinction based solely on the symptoms is often difficult.

A common cold is usually mild, with a runny nose and sore throat, rarely accompanied by fever. The flu typically begins suddenly with a high fever, severe malaise, and muscle and joint pain. COVID-19 often develops more slowly; symptoms worsen over several days, and fatigue and body aches are common.

A loss of smell or taste is considered a strong indicator of COVID-19, although this symptom does not occur in all infected individuals and is rare in this form with the flu or a common cold. A dry cough is typical of COVID-19, but can also occur with the flu.

Since the symptoms overlap and the course of the illness is variable, it is recommended to undergo a test if you are unsure. Combination self-tests are now available that can simultaneously test for coronavirus, influenza, and other respiratory pathogens. This is the only way to determine the exact cause, which is important for the correct treatment and necessary precautions.

Reinfection with the coronavirus is possible because new variants can evade the immune system. Studies show that reinfections are usually milder and shorter in duration, but the risk of severe illness can increase in people with pre-existing conditions. Older people and those in high-risk groups should therefore be especially careful.

Even in autumn 2025, it will still be possible to buy Corona tests and get tested in certain facilities.

Self-tests are available here, among other places:

• Online pharmacies and mail order companies
• Drugstores
• Retail chains

The services typically offered include saliva tests and rapid nasal antigen tests .

Important to consider when buying – especially online:

• Ensure that the product has valid approval (e.g. CE marking or official listing).
• Check expiry date

Those who do not wish to test themselves can still get tested in some places at doctors' offices , testing centers or municipal facilities – however, the availability varies regionally.

The currently approved Covid-19 vaccines continue to offer effective protection against severe cases. A booster vaccination is especially recommended for:

• People aged 60 and over
• People with chronic or relevant pre-existing conditions
• Employees in the health and care sector
• Relatives or close contacts of at-risk individuals

Health authorities recommend a booster vaccination if it has been some time since the last vaccination or infection. While vaccination cannot always prevent infection, it significantly increases protection against severe illness.

In principle, simultaneous administration of the COVID-19 and flu vaccines is possible . The advantage: fewer doctor's visits and faster, more comprehensive protection.

Nevertheless, some doctors and patients prefer a time interval – especially if intolerances have occurred in the past.

Expert panels generally consider combined vaccination to be practical and useful, especially for risk groups and during times of increased respiratory infections .

What was commonplace during the pandemic – FFP2 masks , social distancing rules and special corona regulations – now hardly plays a role in public life.

There are no longer any official quarantine requirements after a COVID-19 infection. However, voluntary self-isolation is still recommended if symptoms occur. Masks are only required in certain areas, such as doctors' offices, sensitive medical facilities, or as per regional recommendations.