Consensus to Conquer Challenges in Influenza Immunization in Pulmonology Practice in India: Proceedings of the...

Influenza remains a major health concern, especially for patients with chronic respiratory diseases such as asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Despite clear evidence of its benefits, annual influenza vaccination rates in India remain critically low, particularly among high-risk populations and healthcare professionals (HCPs). Key barriers include misinformation, lack of provider recommendation, and absence of structured vaccination programs. The year-round circulation of influenza in India supports the use of both Northern Hemisphere (NH) and Southern Hemisphere (SH) vaccines, depending on the timing. Patients should be vaccinated with the latest NH or SH strain whenever they present for immunization. Recent guidelines favor trivalent vaccines due to the absence of the B/Yamagata strain. A multi-pronged strategy involving HCP advocacy, public education, improved infrastructure, and policy support is essential to improve vaccine uptake and reduce influenza-related morbidity and mortality.