Overcoming barriers to adult immunization in Europe: A decalogue for policy action by the Adult Immunization Board
Year: 2026
Type: article
Abstract: Adult immunization is a critical yet underdeveloped area within European public health, as fragmented systems and implementation barriers persist. With a growing burden of vaccine-preventable diseases among adults due to demographic aging and emerging pathogens, this policy comment aims to address key barriers impeding a high vaccination uptake, including data availability, feasibility issues, political and financial constraints, vaccine confidence and literacy among the population and healthcare providers, and access issues and organization. Drawing on insights from Adult Immunization Board (AIB) meetings and discussions, a decalogue of actionable policy recommendations is proposed to overcome these barriers. This comprehensive strategy underscores the need for coordinated, multidisciplinary efforts and sustained political commitment to optimize adult immunization programs, leveraging lessons from the recent COVID-19 pandemic response.
Source: Health Policy and Technology
Authors: Sara Boccalini, Marco Del Riccio, Birgit Weinberger, Domenico Martinelli, Angela Bechini, Greet Hendrickx, Paolo Bonanni, Pierre Van Damme, Per Ljungman, Sotirios Tsiodras, Odile Launay, Giovanni Gabutti, Antoni Torres, Roman Chlibek, Johan Flamaing, Robert Steffen, Helena Maltezou, Stefania Maggi, Jacek Wysocki, Ligita Jancoriene, Heidi Larson, Alojz Ihan, Thomas Weinke, Daphné Holt, Mariano Votta, Javier Díez-Domingo, Jade Pattyn
Language: English
Subfield: Health
Field: Social Sciences
Domain: Social Sciences
Open Access status: hybrid
Estimated APC paid: $3,000
OpenAlex ID: W7129364906