Vaccination across the life course is a fundamental pillar for resilient health systems and healthy aging. Despite this, adult vaccination remains one of the most underutilised public health tools across Europe. While all EU Member States run National Immunisation Programmes (NIPs), a lack of consistent targets, strategies, and dedicated funding has resulted in significant gaps in coverage, access, and overall public health impact. This disparity is starkly visible in influenza vaccine uptake among older adults, which ranges from as low as 10% to nearly 80% across the continent.
The CLCI proposes a realistic and politically feasible approach to enhance adult vaccination through nationally led solutions, bolstered by EU-set goals and coordination. The core of this strategy involves shifting the focus from fragmented national efforts to a shared, measurable vision. This includes agreeing on ambitious yet achievable objectives, such as:
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Setting EU-determined goals, like aiming for over 90% coverage of influenza and Tdap (Tetanus, diphtheria, and acellular pertussis) in older adults.
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Strengthening surveillance systems through EU investment in interoperable, real-time data.
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Developing comprehensive adult vaccine registries in every Member State to track uptake and enable cross-border verification.
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Securing sustainable financing by reimbursing vaccination on par with curative services and expanding delivery through community providers.
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Building public trust and countering misinformation through communication campaigns co-designed with civil society.
Read the full policy brief to explore the detailed recommendations for action and the current European landscape of adult immunisation.
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