Toward a Council Recommendation on the value of immunisation against respiratory infections

On 15 October 2025, more than 60 participants gathered at the European Parliament for the 2025 #EURespiDay event, hosted by MEP Billy Kelleher. With contributions from Steering Group Co-Chairs MEP Dolors Montserrat and ESWI Chair Colin Russell, the event marked the official launch of the Steering Group on the Prevention of Respiratory Infections’ new manifesto, which calls for a Council Recommendation recognising the value of immunisation against respiratory infections. The proposed framework seeks to build on lessons learned from influenza to develop a comprehensive, practical strategy for preventing and managing other major respiratory infections.

The event brought together policymakers, academics, health professionals, and industry leaders to showcase the influenza policy framework as a model for effective EU immunisation policy, and to argue for extending similar approaches to COVID-19, RSV, and pneumococcal disease. Participants stressed the need for harmonised EU immunisation targets, integrated surveillance systems, and measures to strengthen public and healthcare professional confidence in vaccination.

The discussions highlighted the importance of recognising immunisation against respiratory infections as a strategic EU priority and set the foundations for coordinated, resilient, and future-proof public health action across Europe.