Author(s)

Abraham Palache^1,2*, Julia Tainijoki-Seyer³, Téa Collins³

¹Abbott, Weesp, The Netherlands.
²International Federation of Pharmaceutical Manufacturers & Associations (IFPMA)—Influenza Vaccine Supply Task Force (IVS), Geneva, Switzerland.
³World Medical Association, Ferney Voltaire, France.

Seasonal influenza is a major public health problem globally, causing significant morbidity and mortality, especially in high-risk groups. Children and adults with underlying chronic non-communicable diseases (NCDs) are especially vulnerable to complications, hospitalizations and even death from the infection. However, the link between NCDs and influenza is frequently underestimated. Vaccination against influenza is the single most effective way to reduce this vulnerability in people living with NCDs. Irrespective vaccination rates in this group fall short of the WHO recommended target of 75%. This paper explores the relationship between seasonal influenza and NCDs and proposes strategies for increasing vaccination coverage among the target groups.

Seasonal Influenza, Vaccination Coverage, NCDs, Healthcare Workers, Health Professionals

Palache, A. , Tainijoki-Seyer, J. and Collins, T. (2014) The Link between Seasonal Influenza and NCDs: Strategies for Improving Vaccination Coverage. Health, 6, 2724-2735. doi: 10.4236/health.2014.619311.