Roundtable Discussion on "Current Challenges of Adult Immunization against Influenza & a way forward"

In recent years, there has been a significant rise in the threat of a human influenza pandemic. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), every year approximately one billion people are adversely impacted by the seasonal influenza. India witnesses a surge in flu cases following the monsoon season. While pediatric immunization is regularly emphasized, adults often overlook the importance of getting vaccinated.

Adult immunization against H1N1 plays a crucial role in reducing its impact on both individual and public health. Annual flu vaccination is recommended for most adults, especially those at higher risk of complications, and it contributes to the overall well-being of communities and the prevention of more serious influenza-related illnesses and hospitalizations.

The government has also taken various measures to combat seasonal influenza and mitigate its impact on public health. The Government is diligently monitoring the seasonal influenza situation in various States/UTs through the Integrated Disease Surveillance Programme (IDSP) network on a real-time basis. With government guidelines in place for influenza vaccination, Indian medical societies have also endorsed immunization for adults to enhance public health.

To promote adult immunization and overall public health, ASSOCHAM is organising a Roundtable Discussion on “Current Challenges of Adult Immunization against Influenza & a way forward”.  The principal focus of this session is to address the challenges and strategies needed to overcome barriers in the implementation of adult immunization.