The European Parliament is aware of the need to take very seriously seasonal flu campaign. Influenza vaccination coverage among health professionals is low. European Influenza Day, 11 October, is an ideal time to analyze how to improve coverage and protection of high-risk groups in Europe.
Within these goals, it is critical to take steps to reduce the burden of influenza disease. dolos montserrat (personal protective equipment) and Istvan Ujhay (S&D) shows once again that the two main parties in the European Parliament (People’s Party and Socialist Party) are in agreement on relevant issues, such as the prevention of influenza.
european documents
The two speakers signed a joint document that includes recommendations at European level and from member states.These recommendations are made with the support of Influenza Vaccine Standing Committeewhich includes experts from various organizations, including the World Medical Organization (WMA), vaccine Europe and other entities in the third sector and care.
this Three main ideas they revolve around the goals involved health professionals:
- Strengthen and promote information and training for health professionals among colleagues
- Improve public awareness of the protection of high-risk groups, reaching a coverage rate of 75%
- In this way, society’s protection against infectious diseases preventable by vaccination is enhanced
Low vaccination coverage
Because it is necessary to understand Low vaccination coverage Fight the flu health personnel, doctors and nurses, women and men who provide care to at-risk populations. The average coverage of health personnel does not exceed 40%, which is far from an acceptable level.
But some health centers, such as some hospitals, have successful vaccination programs implemented by preventive medicine services that achieve high coverage in hospital settings. These “best practices” should be identified and expanded upon.
Economic Development Center (European Center for Disease Control) The European Union and the World Health Organization provide member states with timely and accurate information to provide a greater guarantee of success in responding to seasonal influenza waves.
spanish expert
Jose María Erós (Professor of Microbiology working at the National Influenza Center in Valladolid) and J. Javier Castrodeza (Professor of Preventive Medicine and Public Health) believes that influenza deserves prompt attention from the European Parliament.
Professor Castro de Sa confirms vaccination rates they are a challenge It is a long distance running.He explained that there was no doubt that coverage had increased during the pandemic, but it was necessary to allow All health professionals.
Professor Eirós clarified that the responsibilities of medical staff are threefold: Set an example and get vaccinated Avoid getting and spreading the flu; take action People who are vulnerable to vaccination and become its followers annual form, If necessary, better prevent binding strains.
Castrodeza recalled that when asked, one of the reasons for not vaccinating high-risk groups was “their health care. Not recommended”. The people patients trust most should be more proactive in recommending influenza vaccination.
Immunosenescence
For preventive medicine experts, the challenge Immunosenescence Lowered flu vaccination recommendations recommended From 60 years old.In this sense, the former Health Secretary recalled enhanced immunogenicity vaccines They are a good strategy for vulnerable groups and an adjuvanted vaccine for other groups. Additionally, Castro de Sa drew attention to the ability to plan vaccine procurement 2, 3 or 4 years in advance “to avoid a lack of vaccine due to any event.”
Professor Eirós said that the influenza vaccine can produce a protective immune response of 50% to 70%. Experts remember that there are three factors that influence this effectiveness: population immune, Vaccine type and index between spread virus and people carrying vaccines.
The professor also remembered that the flu vaccine does not prevent 100% of the flu, but it does significantly reduce the risk. disease burden; they prevent Hospitalization and complications and, in particular, death toll.
Other channels
European Parliament recommendations Expand influenza vaccination channels. Countries facing the challenge of increasing vaccination coverage can collect some examples of success. France There are successful examples of this, such as integrating pharmacies into flu vaccination campaigns.