Increased flu and COVID-19 vaccination coverage recommended for risk groups in EU/EEA ahead of winter season

The seasonal flu vaccination rate for people aged 65 and over during the 2023-2024 season varied significantly between countries, from 12% to 78%, with only two countries exceeding 75% vaccination coverage in this age group. This underscores the need for more focused vaccination efforts.

Vaccination rates against COVID-19 between September 2023 to July 2024 vary even more from 0.02% to 66.1%, with median coverage among people 60 years and older at just 14%.

“Vaccination is one of the most effective measures we have to protect the most vulnerable in society from severe disease, hospitalisation and death. With so few countries reaching adequate levels of protection for target groups, it is essential to increase vaccination uptake as we enter the winter season.” said Pamela Rendi-Wagner, ECDC director.

With the upcoming winter season, a co-circulation of seasonal influenza, RSV, SARS-CoV-2 and other respiratory viruses is expected, putting significant strain on health systems and disproportionately affecting people in high-risk groups, such as the elderly and people with weakened immune systems and underlying conditions.

Vaccination among frontline healthcare workers is also important, given their exposure to pathogens, their interaction with vulnerable patients and to prevent workforce shortages.

In addition to vaccination, basic preventive measures are important to consider to reduce virus transmission. ECDC recommends staying at home if you have symptoms of a respiratory virus, respecting respiratory hygiene and cough etiquette, frequent hand washing and ventilation of indoor spaces. Also, wearing a mask in crowded places or around vulnerable people can be considered when experiencing symptoms.