A comprehensive EU framework for respiratory infection prevention

Steering Group Prevention Respiratory Infections

Hosted by MEP Billy Kelleher  - Closing immunisation gaps: A comprehensive EU framework for respiratory infection prevention

European Parliament

Location: European Parliament (Spinelli 5E2) and livestreamed onlineThe <a href="https://www.vaccineseurope.eu/collaborations/coalitions-and-ppps/steering-group-on-prevention-of-respiratory-infections/" title="https://www.vaccineseurope.eu/collaborations/coalitions-and-ppps/steering-group-on-prevention-of-respiratory-infections/" target="_blank" data-msys-clicktrack="0" rel="nofollow noopener noreferrer">Steering Group on Prevention of Respiratory Infections</a> 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.Moderated by Nicola Bedlington, our exciting line-up of speakers includes:<ul><li>MEP Billy Kelleher (Renew Europe, Ireland) – Host</li><li>MEP Dolors Montserrat (EPP, Spain) - Co-Chair of the Steering Group</li><li>Rita Figueira - Policy Officer, European Commission DG SANTE</li><li>Dr. Colin Russell – Professor of Applied Evolutionary Biology, ESWI Chair &amp; Co-Chair of the Steering Group</li><li>Stephen Donnelly – Former Irish Minister for Health</li><li>Rachael Thomas - RSV Patient Network</li><li>Dr. Marta Nunes – Director of the Centre of Excellence in Respiratory Pathogens</li><li>Dr. Louis Bont – Chair, ReSViNET Foundation</li><li>Anna van Renen – Research and Policy Officer, International Longevity Centre UK</li></ul>...with more to be announced!The event will feature a powerful personal testimony from Rachael Thomas of the RSV Patient Network, whose 13-week-old son tragically lost his life to RSV. Her story is a reminder of the human cost of preventable illness and the urgency for EU action.Ahead of Ireland’s Presidency of the Council of the EU in 2026, Stephen Donnelly, former Irish Minister for Health will highlight how the country’s experience with immunisation policy can inform EU-level priorities. He will share national lessons learned and explore how the EU can scale up efforts to protect at risk populations.Leading experts on flu, RSV, pneumococcal disease, and COVID-19 will look at how lessons learned from flu can support stronger EU coordination on other respiratory infections.Make your voice heard on social media with the hashtag <a href="https://twitter.com/search?q=%23EUFluDay&src=typed_query&f=media" title="https://twitter.com/search?q=%23EUFluDay&src=typed_query&f=media" target="_blank" data-msys-clicktrack="0" rel="nofollow noopener noreferrer">#EUFluDay</a> 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 <a href="https://www.vaccineseurope.eu/" title="https://www.vaccineseurope.eu/" target="_blank" data-msys-clicktrack="0" rel="nofollow noopener noreferrer">Vaccines Europe</a>.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 <a href="https://www.ecdc.europa.eu/sites/default/files/documents/Seasonalflu%20vacc%20coverage%20and%20recommendations%20-%2026%20Nov.pdf" title="https://www.ecdc.europa.eu/sites/default/files/documents/Seasonalflu%20vacc%20coverage%20and%20recommendations%20-%2026%20Nov.pdf" target="_blank" data-msys-clicktrack="0" rel="nofollow noopener noreferrer">below target in many EU countries</a>.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.

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