Cold and Flu Season 2026/27: The Right Protection for Autumn and Winter
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Cold and Flu Season 2026/27: The Right Protection for Autumn and Winter
Last updated: August 13, 2026
As the first cooler days of autumn arrive, cold and flu season is starting again. Millions of people in Germany catch respiratory infections every year – many of these infections could be avoided with a few simple protective measures. In this guide, we explain when wearing a mask makes sense, who should pay particular attention to protection, and how to prepare in good time for the cold season.
Why cold and flu season calls for extra protection
During the cold season, people spend more time in enclosed, poorly ventilated rooms – ideal conditions for viruses to spread. According to the Robert Koch Institute (RKI), correctly wearing a mouth-and-nose covering during periods of high virus circulation indoors can offer additional protection against infection, especially for at-risk groups (Source: RKI). The RKI also recommends that people with acute respiratory symptoms wear a mask to protect others, especially when close contact with at-risk groups cannot be avoided.
When does cold and flu season begin?
In Germany, cold season usually starts in October and lasts until April. The actual flu wave tends to start a little later and, according to the RKI, lasts three to four months on average, though this varies noticeably from year to year. Preparing early – ideally already in autumn – for both means you're less likely to be caught off guard by contact with sick people.
FFP2 or surgical mask: what makes sense during cold and flu season?
Not every situation calls for the same type of mask. A quick overview can help with the decision:
| Situation | Recommended mask type | Reason |
|---|---|---|
| Own cold symptoms, contact with others | Surgical mask | Protects others, comfortable to wear all day |
| Visiting at-risk people (e.g. relatives in care) | FFP2 mask | Protects yourself and others during close contact |
| Crowded public transport, waiting rooms | FFP2 mask | High viral load indoors, tight seal |
| Quick errand, low risk | Surgical mask | Sufficient basic protection, comfortable to wear |
When a surgical mask is enough
For everyday situations and brief, low-risk contact, a medical surgical mask is usually sufficient. It mainly protects those around you from droplets and can be worn comfortably for longer periods.
When an FFP2 mask is recommended
For close contact with at-risk groups, in crowded indoor spaces, or when your own protection is the priority, an FFP2 mask is the better choice. It fits tightly against the face and filters at least 94% of airborne particles. You can find a detailed comparison of both mask types in our guide FFP2 vs. Surgical Mask: What's the Difference?
Who should pay particular attention to protection during cold and flu season
- Care workers and medical staff: Regular contact with vulnerable patients
- People with chronic illnesses or weakened immune systems: Higher risk of severe illness
- Pregnant women: Increased risk of complications from respiratory infections
- Older adults: Flu tends to run a more severe course in old age
- Commuters and frequent travelers: Frequent contact with many people on buses, trains, and planes
- Families with newborns or young children: Protecting the youngest from infection by adults
Additional protective measures besides wearing a mask
- Regular hand washing: At least 20 seconds with soap, especially after touching public surfaces
- Proper ventilation: Air out indoor rooms several times a day to reduce virus concentration in the air
- Keeping distance: Where possible, keep your distance from visibly ill people
- Coughing and sneezing etiquette: Cough or sneeze into your elbow, not your hand
- Strengthening your immune system: Enough sleep, outdoor exercise, and a balanced diet
Preparing in time: stocking up on masks for autumn and winter
If you only reach for a mask once half the family already has a cold, you're often left empty-handed – good masks sell out quickly. It's worth preparing ahead of time:
- Stock up on enough surgical and FFP2 masks for the whole household
- When buying, check for CE certification and a best-before date with enough time left
- Store masks in a dry, cool place, away from light
- Be well equipped for different situations (everyday use, visits, on the go) with a mask bundle
Frequently asked questions about cold and flu season
When does cold and flu season begin in Germany?
Cold season usually starts in October and lasts until April. The actual flu wave tends to begin a bit later and, according to the RKI, lasts three to four months on average, though the exact timing varies from year to year.
Does a mask really protect against colds and flu?
According to the RKI, correctly wearing a mouth-and-nose covering during periods of high virus circulation indoors can offer additional protection against infection. The mask is especially effective when combined with other measures such as hand hygiene and regular ventilation.
Which mask should I wear if I have cold symptoms myself?
If you have symptoms, the RKI recommends wearing a mask to protect others, especially when close contact with at-risk groups cannot be avoided. A surgical mask is usually sufficient for this.
How many masks should I stock up on for cold and flu season?
There's no one-size-fits-all number, as it depends on household size and use. A sensible stock covers several weeks of everyday use plus additional situations such as doctor's visits or contact with at-risk people – supplemented with FFP2 masks for particularly high-risk situations.
Conclusion
Cold and flu season can't be avoided, but you can noticeably reduce your own risk of infection. The right mask at the right time, combined with good hand hygiene and regular ventilation, meaningfully lowers the risk of infection. Stocking up now, in late summer, means you're well prepared for autumn and winter.
Discover our FFP2 masks and surgical masks for the cold season – CE-certified, latex-free, and made in Germany.
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