Adult immunisation can lower risks for people living with non-communicable diseases, according to a new focus by EU health advocates. The initiative, #VaccinAction, highlights how vaccines protect against respiratory infections like COVID-19 and flu in those with chronic conditions. Despite proven benefits, uptake remains low in this group.
The fifth edition of the EU campaign will centre on vaccination’s role in managing non-communicable diseases. A workshop in Brussels on October 2nd will examine links between immunisation and cardiovascular health. Experts argue vaccines may act as a preventive tool for heart-related conditions in high-risk patients.
Public health officials note growing evidence of vaccines’ dual role: fighting infections while reducing strain on organs affected by chronic illness. This aligns with the European Commission’s recent “EU Cardiovascular Health Plan,” which included input from civil society groups pushing for stronger vaccine integration.
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The European Society of Cardiology recently called for vaccines to be viewed as a new prevention method. ESC’s website outlines research showing reduced hospitalisations for heart patients who receive flu shots. Similar trends appear in data on pneumococcal disease and RSV.
Workshop organisers aim to equip patient advocates and civil society leaders with tools to influence policy. Participants will share strategies from national campaigns and co-create messaging for public outreach. The event builds on years of civil society efforts to shape EU health decisions.
Experts stress that vaccination rates for people with NCDs lag behind general populations. This gap risks worsening outcomes during outbreaks. The Brussels meeting will explore tailored approaches to improve access and address vaccine hesitancy in this demographic.
Civil society groups will present case studies on successful advocacy. These include campaigns that linked vaccination to reduced emergency care visits for diabetics and those with respiratory conditions. The session will also highlight challenges in translating policy goals into real-world care.
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Participants will discuss how to measure vaccine impact in NCD populations. Metrics could include hospitalisation rates, medication use, and quality-of-life indicators. The session seeks to identify barriers to implementation and share solutions from different European countries.
One challenge remains ensuring vaccines reach those with complex health needs. Coordinating with primary care providers and specialists may help. The workshop will address how to build trust in vaccine programmes for people managing multiple chronic conditions.
The event underscores a shift in public health thinking. Vaccines are no longer seen solely as infectious disease tools but as part of broader strategies to manage long-term health issues. This approach could reshape how chronic care is delivered across Europe.
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