Air & Water Borne Diseases
Open Access

Transparent communication; Influenza pandemic; Vaccination rates; World health organization

Introduction

Seasonal influenza, a recurring public health concern, poses a significant threat to global populations each year. Vaccination against influenza has proven to be an effective preventive measure, reducing the burden of illness, hospitalizations, and mortality [1]. However, despite a positive trend in overall vaccine use, the benefits of seasonal influenza vaccination remain limited due to two major challenges: vaccine complacency and dose distribution inequities. In order to maximize the impact of seasonal influenza vaccination, it is imperative to address these issues head-on and strive for a more inclusive and proactive approach. The World Health Organization’s (WHO) Global Action Plan for Influenza Vaccines (GAP) was established in 2006 to increase the production capacity for influenza vaccines, one of several critical actions needed to better prepare for an influenza pandemic [2]. When it ended in November 2016, the GAP had increased seasonal influenza vaccine use and quadrupled the potential production capacity for pandemic influenza vaccine, including through the establishment of local production in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). Despite improving capacity and accessibility, the report of the third consultation on the GAP concluded that the world was still not ready to adequately respond to an influenza pandemic and that the initial approaches used were unlikely to achieve further progress. Making up for a shortfall of 3.6 billion doses in production capacity would depend on sustainable demand for seasonal vaccines as part of health security strategies in countries [3].

Understanding vaccine complacency

Vaccine complacency refers to a diminishing sense of urgency or importance placed on vaccination by individuals or communities. It can be attributed to various factors, including misconceptions about influenza severity, doubts about vaccine efficacy, and a false sense of security based on previous vaccination or mild illness experiences. Vaccine complacency undermines the motivation to get vaccinated, resulting in suboptimal coverage rates and leaving populations vulnerable to influenza outbreaks [4].

To tackle vaccine complacency, public health authorities and healthcare providers must engage in robust education campaigns [5]. Clear and accurate information about the severity of influenza, the benefits of vaccination, and the potential consequences of complacency should be communicated effectively. Collaborating with community leaders, healthcare professionals, and trusted influencers can help disseminate accurate information and dispel myths surrounding the vaccine, ultimately encouraging more individuals to prioritize seasonal influenza vaccination [6].

Addressing dose distribution inequities

Dose distribution inequities arise when certain populations face barriers in accessing or receiving influenza vaccines. These barriers can be socioeconomic, geographical, or due to systemic factors such as limited vaccine supply or inadequate distribution networks. As a result, vulnerable groups, including low-income communities, racial and ethnic minorities, and rural populations, often face disproportionately low vaccination rates and higher influenza-related morbidity and mortality [7].

To close the gap in dose distribution inequities, it is crucial to implement targeted strategies that address barriers to vaccination. This includes ensuring equitable vaccine allocation and distribution, especially in underserved areas. Collaborating with community organizations, implementing mobile vaccination clinics, and expanding access points such as pharmacies, workplaces, and schools can help reach marginalized populations. Furthermore, removing financial barriers by providing subsidized or free vaccines and reducing administrative burdens can make vaccination more accessible to those in need [8].

Strengthening vaccine confidence and access

Building trust and confidence in seasonal influenza vaccination is paramount to overcoming complacency and inequities. Public health authorities should foster transparent communication about vaccine safety, efficacy, and ongoing monitoring. Addressing concerns and acknowledging any rare side effects through open dialogue can help alleviate vaccine hesitancy. Additionally, leveraging technology and digital platforms to provide accessible information, appointment scheduling, and reminders can enhance convenience and engagement [9].

Collaboration between public health authorities, healthcare providers, community organizations, and private sector stakeholders is vital in implementing comprehensive immunization strategies. This includes conducting community outreach programs, partnering with local clinics and pharmacies, and leveraging existing healthcare infrastructure to ensure a seamless vaccination process. Furthermore, engaging in rigorous data collection and analysis can help identify areas with low vaccination rates and target interventions effectively [10].

Conclusion

Closing the gap in seasonal influenza vaccination requires a multifaceted approach that addresses both vaccine complacency and dose distribution inequities. By promoting vaccine education, building trust, and removing barriers to access, we can foster a culture of preventive healthcare and ensure that the benefits of seasonal influenza vaccination are realized by all. Public health authorities, healthcare providers, and communities must work together to tackle these challenges and strive for a future where effective seasonal influenza vaccination is accessible and embraced by everyone. While the benefits of seasonal influenza vaccination are clear and well documented by the WHO, vaccine complacency continues to reduce the potential benefits of influenza vaccination at a population level. Improving seasonal vaccine uptake rates is not only an important driver for pandemic preparedness, but also for optimizing the annual benefits in the at-risk individuals for whom vaccination is recommended. Increased vaccine uptake can substantially reduce the huge annual influenza-associated societal burden as well as protect vulnerable persons against serious complications from influenza infections.

1. Roeder P, Mariner J, Kock R (2013) Rinderpest: the veterinary perspective on eradication. Philos Trans R Soc Lond B BiolSc 368:21-26.

Indexed at, Google Scholar, Crossref

2. Karesh, WB (2012) Ecology of zoonoses: natural and unnatural histories. Lancet 380:1936–1945

Indexed at, Google Scholar, Crossref

3. Plowright (2017) R K Pathways to zoonotic spillover. Nat Rev Microbiol 15: 502–510

Indexed at, Google Scholar, Crossref

4. Zhou P, Shi ZL (2021) SARS-CoV-2 spillover events. Science 37:1120–122

Indexed at, Google Scholar, Crossref

5. Lloyd-Smith JO (2009) Epidemic dynamics at the human-animal interface. Science 326: 1362–1367

Indexed at, Google Scholar, Crossref

6. Brashares, JS (2004) Bushmeat hunting, wildlife declines, and fish supply in West Africa. Science 306: 1180–1183

Indexed at, Google Scholar, Crossref

7. Parashar UD (2000) Case-control study of risk factors for human infection with a new zoonotic paramyxovirus, Nipah Virus, during a 1998–1999 outbreak of severe encephalitis in Malaysia. J Infect Dis 181:1755–1759

Indexed at, Google Scholar, Crossref

8. Field H (2001) the natural history of Hendra and Nipah viruses. Microbes Infect 3: 307–314

Indexed at, Google Scholar, Crossref

9. Pitzer, VE (2016) High turnover drives prolonged persistence of influenza in managed pig herds. J R Soc Interface 13: 2016-2019

Indexed at, Google Scholar, Crossref

10. Jones BA (2013) Zoonosis emergence linked to agricultural intensification and environmental change. Proc Natl Acad Sci USA 110: 8399–8404

Indexed at, Google Scholar, Crossref