Flu Awareness Campaign

WHO/Europe launched the Flu Awareness Campaign initiative in 2013 as an extension of European Immunization Week. The Campaign aims at increasing uptake of seasonal influenza vaccination in risk groups. Some people, such as older people, pregnant women, young children and people with underlying health conditions are at higher risk of serious influenza complications. In addition, health care workers are more exposed to different viruses on a daily basis, including the influenza virus.

But why a specific campaign on flu?

Influenza is usually mild and most people recover quickly. However, this contagious respiratory illness caused by influenza viruses may occasionally cause severe disease and death.

The best way to prevent influenza is by getting vaccinated. As influenza viruses change, a flu shot is needed every year to keep up with the circulating viruses. In the northern hemisphere, the influenza season usually occurs during autumn and winter, and October is an optimal time to receive an influenza vaccination and to start the Campaign. 

Read more about the campaign

Events

Flu Awareness Week, 5-9 October 2020

Campaign
5 Oct 2020 - 9 Oct 2020
World Health Organization (WHO) - Regional office for Europe

The Flu Awareness Week is marked across the WHO European Region every year in October. It aims to raise awareness of the importance of vaccination for people’s health and well-being and to increase the uptake of seasonal influenza vaccination of people with underlying risk factors.

Flu Awareness Week, 21-25 October 2019

Campaign
21 Oct 2019 - 25 Oct 2019
World Health Organization (WHO) - Regional office for Europe

The Flu Awareness Week is marked across the WHO European Region every year in October. It aims to raise awareness of the importance of vaccination for people’s health and well-being and to increase the uptake of seasonal influenza vaccination of people with underlying risk factors.

Flu Awareness Week, 22 – 26 October 2018

Campaign
22 Oct 2018 - 26 Oct 2018
World Health Organization (WHO) - Regional office for Europe

The Flu Awareness Week is marked across the WHO European Region every year in October. It aims to raise awareness of the importance of vaccination for people’s health and well-being and to increase the uptake of seasonal influenza vaccination of people with underlying risk factors.