A new call for influenza and pneumococcal vaccinations during COVID-19 pandemic in Italy: A SIP/IRS (Italian Respiratory Society) and SITA (Italian Society of Antiinfective therapy) statement. (December 2021)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Blasi, Francesco; Di Pasquale, Marta; Gramegna, Andrea; Viale, Pierluigi; Iacobello, Carmelo; Gori, Andrea; Tumbarello, Mario; Esposito, Susanna; Richeldi, Luca; Bassetti, Matteo
• Is Part Of: Respiratory medicine. Volume 190(2022)
• Publication Date: 2021-12
• Subjects: Vaccination -- Influenza -- Pneumococcus -- COVID-19; Chest -- Diseases -- Periodicals; Chest -- Diseases -- Great Britain -- Periodicals; Respiratory organs -- Diseases -- Periodicals; Respiratory Tract Diseases -- Periodicals; Appareil respiratoire -- Maladies -- Périodiques; Thorax -- Maladies -- Périodiques; Appareil respiratoire -- Maladies -- Traitement -- Périodiques; Electronic journals; 616.2
• DOI: 10.1016/j.rmed.2021.106674
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0954-6111

Abstract

Abstract: Influenza and pneumococcal disease represent a well-known burden on healthcare systems worldwide, as well as they still have an attributed morbidity and mortality, especially in elderly individuals and vulnerable populations. In the context of the ongoing pandemic of COVID-19, a series of considerations in favor of extensive influenza and pneumococcal vaccination campaign are emerging, including a possible reduction of hospital extra burden and saving of sanitary resources. In addition, recent studies have suggested that prior vaccinations towards non SARS-CoV-2 pathogens might confer some protection against COVID-19. In this paper the authors consider all factors in support of these hypotheses and provide a consensus statement to encourage influenza and pneumococcal vaccinations in targeted populations. Highlights: Although preventable, both seasonal influenza and pneumococcal diseases still cause a significant morbidity and mortality. Despite proactive recommendations and public health policies on vaccinations, immunization for both influenza and pneumococcal disease are still far from acceptable rates. Prevention of both influenza and pneumococcal-related hospital admissions might help to reduce extra burden for healthcare systems and save sanitary resources. Health extensive vaccination campaigns, adequate vaccines availability and suitable facilities for administration are mandatory.