A comprehensive EU framework for respiratory infection prevention

Location: European Parliament and livestreamed online

Save your place by registering for the event either in person or online!

The Steering Group on Prevention of Respiratory Infections is delighted to invite you to our annual event, and the first since our evolution from the Steering Group on Influenza Vaccination.

During this year’s discussion, we will launch our new manifesto, highlighting our call for a new Council Recommendation on the value of immunisation against respiratory infections. This would reflect the growing burden posed by respiratory infections including influenza, COVID-19, RSV and pneumococcal disease on populations across Europe and their severe impact on healthcare systems.

Our 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

...with more to be announced!

The event will feature a personal testimony from a patient, offering a moving perspective on the real-life impact of RSV.

To strengthen immunisation coverage across the EU, speakers will underline the value of a harmonised EU immunisation target for respiratory infections as well as investing in integrated surveillance systems and other policy tools.

, highlighting lessons learned from their own public health prevention and immunisation policy efforts. Together we will explore how the influenza policy framework can serve as a model for effective EU action on immunisation against other respiratory infections. Further, discussions will draw on Ireland as a case study, highlighting lessons learned from their own public health prevention and immunisation policy efforts.

Make your voice heard on social media with the hashtag #EUFluDay and #EURespiDay. And, if you like, join the growing ranks of national leaders, MEPs, patient advocates and others raising awareness by sharing a photo of yourself with a message or getting your seasonal immunisations!

The Steering Group on Prevention of Respiratory Infection's activities are supported by Vaccines Europe.

Why join us?

Amid rising health threats and increasing pressure on health systems, the EU has a clear opportunity and responsibility to lead on preparedness by strengthening investment in public health prevention. As other major players retreat from sustained public health investment, the EU can step forward to fill the gap and champion a model of long-term resilience.

Respiratory infections - including influenza, COVID-19, RSV and pneumococcal disease - are among the most serious public health threats facing Europe. Despite the availability of safe and effective tools, immunisation coverage for these infections remains below target in many EU countries.

About us: The event is organised by the Steering Group on Prevention of Respiratory Infections, formerly Steering Group on Influenza Vaccination, an EU-level coalition active since 2017. Co-chaired by MEP Dolors Montserrat and Prof. Colin Russell, it unites health stakeholders to advocate for broader immunisation efforts and shape EU policy and awareness around COVID-19, respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), influenza and pneumococcal disease.