WHO WATCH: Seasonal Influenza Vaccination — Protecting the Vulnerable

Credit: WHO

Description:

‘Seasonal influenza has routinely overwhelmed health systems during years with severe epidemics. Seasonal influenza vaccination can mitigate the impacts of annual outbreaks by preventing and mitigating the severity of infections. As of July 2025, 130 countries (67% of WHO Member States) reported that seasonal influenza vaccines were available in the public and/or private sector.

‘In alignment with World Health Assembly resolution 56.19, the Global Influenza Strategy (2019–2030) and Immunization Agenda 2030, WHO recommends all countries consider introducing seasonal influenza vaccination programmes. WHO actively supports countries in considering and updating vaccination policies for both epidemic and pandemic management of influenza. Influenza vaccination programmes play a critical role in reducing the burden of annual epidemics and enhancing pandemic preparedness.

‘In the context of growing misinformation on vaccines, it is essential that WHO provides timely and accessible information on the value and importance of seasonal influenza vaccination to communities. During this EPI-WIN webinar, Ministries of Health and WHO headquarters & regional staff will provide an overview of key information about seasonal influenza vaccination and will respond to frequently asked questions.’

Objective:

‘Explain the value of seasonal influenza vaccination in reducing severe disease and deaths, the priority groups for seasonal influenza vaccination, and the need for annual vaccination, Highlight WHO’s role in coordinating global information to support evidence-informed decisions on influenza vaccine strain selection, Provide information on how to access seasonal influenza vaccines at affordable prices, monitor influenza vaccination, and support increased uptake and demand.’

Tentative Agenda and Speakers:

• Setting the Scene: Ioana Ghiga, Technical Officer, WHO
• Seasonal influenza vaccination – who should be vaccinated and why: Shoshanna Goldin, Technical Officer, WHO
• How global seasonal influenza data is used to provide recommendations on vaccine composition: Wenqing Zhang, Unit Head, Global Respiratory Threats Unit, WHO

Panel:

• Evaluating the impact of influenza vaccination to inform introduction and programme strengthening: Chesco Nogareda, PAHO
• Accessing influenza vaccines through UNICEF Supply Division: Yasmin Vargas, UNICEF Supply Division
• Understanding behavioural and social drivers of influenza vaccination: Nizar Maswadeh, Jordan Ministry of Health
• Increasing access to seasonal influenza vaccines through pharmacy-based vaccination: Svitlana Aleksenko, Ukraine Ministry of Health
• Q&A