Source: European Parliament
Question for written answer E-001594/2025
to the Commission
Rule 144
Tomislav Sokol (PPE)
Immunosenescence, the age-related decline in immune function, increases the vulnerability of older adults to infectious diseases, such as influenza or COVID-19, as well as non-communicable diseases, including cancer. With one third of EU citizens projected to be over 65 by 2100, addressing this challenge becomes even more urgent as immunosenescence reduces both the immune response to infection and the protection provided by influenza vaccination. Despite this, national vaccination strategies often do not fully account for these age-related changes, limiting their impact. With Europe’s ageing demographic, ensuring that vaccination strategies are optimised for older adults is critical for public health and economic sustainability.
In this context:
- 1.What actions will the Commission undertake to encourage the Member States to adapt their national vaccination programmes to better account for immunosenescence, ensuring older adults receive the most effective and appropriate vaccines available?
- 2.How does the Commission plan to work with the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control to develop more specific guidance on age-related vaccine recommendations, ensuring that national immunisation strategies reflect the latest scientific evidence on vaccine effectiveness in older populations?
Submitted: 22.4.2025