Infectious disease experts have been saying all along that while the worst of the Covid health crisis may be over, the virus that had originally caused the global pandemic in 2020 will continue to circulate, albeit – thankfully – in milder forms.
And this is precisely what has happened: coronavirus re-emerges periodically, still contaminating thousands of people.
What’s the situation in Switzerland right now?
According to the Federal Office of Public Health (FOPH), new wave of Covid is hitting the country.
The number of medical visits for respiratory infections is currently much higher than in the same period the last two years and Covid is one of the main culprits.
FOPH data released in the second week of September, shows 101 Covid-related medical consultations (per 100,000 inhabitants).
By comparison, there were 69 at the same time last year, and 59 in 2023..
"Covid has become significantly more common in recent weeks," said Christoph Flux, an infectious diseases specialist, adding that the “virus is constantly mutating.”
Are Covid vaccines still the thing?
Possibly less contentious than they were during the height of the pandemic, Covid vaccines are still around and, according to Flux, recommended for people at risk – individuals over 65, as well as those with chronic illnesses and weak immunity systems, among others.
The vaccines are constantly adapted to protect against the most recent virus mutations, he said.
When and where to get the shot?
According to FOPH, “the ideal time to get a Covid vaccination is between mid-October and mid-December. The vaccination can be administered any time from six months since the last Covid vaccination or from six months since a known coronavirus infection.”
“Your doctor can offer the Covid vaccination. Many pharmacies in Switzerland offer vaccination advice, and also vaccination in most cantons.”
What else should you know?
In preparation for the 2025/2026 flu season, and in view of the severe wave of flu that has hit the Southern Hemisphere in recent months (and is expected to travel our way this fall), health officials are recommending flu vaccines as well.
Normally, flu shots are given in Switzerland from about the second week of November.
Like Covid, this vaccine is recommended for people in risk groups due to their age or health status.
Both immunisations are covered by health insurance for people over the age of 65.
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