Health
The latest health news and practical advice.
Why pharmacies are closed across Germany on Monday
Across Germany pharmacists are taking part in demonstrations over a long‑running funding dispute which could affect access to medicines.
Where in Europe are people likely to live longer?
Life expectancy data reveals that people are living longer in Europe on average, but major differences in gender and geography remain.
Why seasonal allergies are getting worse in Germany and how to deal with them
The allergy season runs from March to September in Germany, and can be particularly hard on newcomers to the country. Here's a look at why allergies seem to be getting worse, and what you can do to deal with them.
Pollution exposure in Europe linked to mental health problems
Environmental pollution is linked to several mental health disorders in Europe, the European Environment Agency (EEA) has warned, arguing that enforcing legislation would result in Europeans being both less depressed and less anxious.
Do you need travel insurance for the EU if you live in Germany?
If you’re a legal resident in Germany and plan to travel to other European Union countries, it’s worth understanding what you are – and are not – covered for when things go wrong abroad.
The digital health apps covered by public health insurance in Germany
Did you know that doctors in Germany can prescribe more than 50 digital health apps to support various conditions, from social anxiety and depression to back pain, diabetes and migraine prevention? We break down the top-rated apps.
Danone expands recall of infant formula batches in Europe
French food giant Danone recalled batches of infant formula in Britain, Spain, Croatia and Slovenia over the possible presence of a toxin, food safety authorities said on Friday, expanding the measure across Europe.
What does public health insurance really cover at the dentist in Germany?
A recent proposal to exclude dental care from public health insurance coverage in Germany was met with significant backlash. But exactly how much does statutory insurance cover at the dentist anyway?
What German health insurance benefits can you get during pregnancy?
For anyone expecting a baby in Germany or wondering what support and services new parents are entitled to, here’s a straightforward guide to making the most of your statutory health insurance coverage.
Women in Germany can now access a menopause app with public insurance
A new menopause app became the latest addition to Germany’s list of digital health products covered by statutory health insurance on Tuesday, joining more than 50 digital health applications already available to insured residents.
Where in Germany are you most likely to catch an STD?
It will probably not come as a shock to most that parts of Berlin have the highest incident rates for certain sexually transmitted diseases, but the data does contain some surprises.
REVEALED: The German health insurers offering the cheapest rates
Many German health insurance organisations have pushed up their contribution rates this year. So which providers are offering the cheapest rates?
Where hospital and school strikes are impacting Germany this week
On Tuesday, warning strikes began at university hospitals and public sector institutions in North Rhine-Westphalia and Leipzig – with further actions expected in multiple German states this week.
Essential tips for staying safe and active during Germany's winter months
Germany’s winter landscapes offer the perfect backdrop for outdoor exercise, but cold temperatures pose unique challenges. Here's how to stay fit and enjoy the season with these essential winter workout tips.
What parents in Germany need to know about Nestlé’s baby formula recall
Several batches of Nestlé's BEBA and ALFAMINO infant formula have been recalled as a precaution in Germany.
How to switch German health insurance providers and save money
As roughly half of statutory health insurance companies in Germany raise their rates, we look at what you have to do to switch providers and at what you could potentially save.
Will patients in North Rhine Westphalia soon need to pay for ambulances?
The city of Essen had introduced a plan to charge a hefty co-payment to patients who receive medical care in an ambulance. Here's why some cities in Germany are considering charging for emergency response services.
Why consumers in Germany now have more ways to buy medicine
One leading drugstore chain in Germany entered the online pharmacy market on Tuesday, with more set to follow. While the move promises more choice and convenience for consumers, it also brings challenges.
Experts recommend vaccination as flu season arrives early in Germany
The annual flu wave has arrived earlier than usual in Germany according to the country's leading health institute, but there’s still time to protect yourself with a flu shot.
Your views: 'You can't be fired for taking too many sick days in Germany'
A recent report by The Local exploring why people in Germany often call in sick prompted a huge response. We've compiled some comments from readers sharing their answers to the question, 'why do people in Germany take so many sick days?'
Germany's minimum wage for caregivers to rise in two steps
The minimum wages for care workers in Germany are set to rise further in the coming year, and then again in 2027, according to plans by the Ministry of Labour and Ministry of Health announced on Tuesday.
Why do people in Germany take so many sick days?
Germans take more sick leave than most of their European neighbours. As businesses grapple with the economic strain of absences, we explore the different reasons behind Germany's high rate of sick days.
Where in Germany is old-age care most expensive?
The cost of paying for care in old-age nursing homes has been rising sharply in Germany. A new report highlights where families have to pay the most – and least.