Closing immunisation gaps: A comprehensive EU framework for respiratory infection prevention
Hosted by MEP Billy Kelleher, the European Parliament is set to welcome the inaugural EURespiDay on 15 October, marking an important evolution from the long-standing EUFluDay. This new name reflects the growing focus of the Steering Group on Prevention of Respiratory Infections to address the significant public health burden of multiple respiratory diseases.
Moderated by Nicola Bedlington, the exciting line-up of speakers includes:
- MEP Billy Kelleher (Renew Europe, Ireland) – Host
- Dr. Colin Russell – Professor of Applied Evolutionary Biology, ESWI Chair & Co-Chair of the Steering Group
- Stephen Donnelly – Former Irish Minister for Health
- Rachael Thomas - RSV Patient Network
- Dr. Marta Nunes – Director of the Centre of Excellence in Respiratory Pathogens
- Dr. Louis Bont – Chair, ReSViNET Foundation
- Anna van Renen – Research and Policy Officer, International Longevity Centre UK
The event will feature a personal testimony from a patient, offering a moving perspective on the real-life impact of RSV.
Moving beyond Influenza. For years, influenza has been the primary focus of EU-level policy and guidance, including the 2009 Council Recommendation on seasonal flu vaccination. While these frameworks have been crucial, a similar coordinated strategy has yet to be established for other major respiratory threats like COVID-19, RSV and pneumococcal disease. These infections, which carry a significant socioeconomic burden, often lack harmonised coverage targets and cohesive immunisation strategies at national, EU and global levels.
A Call for coordinated action. During the event, the Steering Group will launch its new Manifesto. This document leverages the Steering Group's extensive experience with influenza policy to advocate for a new Council Recommendation on immunisation against respiratory infections. This proposed framework aims to apply the lessons learned from flu to develop a comprehensive and actionable strategy for preventing and controlling other key respiratory infections.
