The appropriateness of the use of influenza vaccines: Recommendations from the latest seasons in Italy

Influenza is one of the major infectious causes of excess mortality, hospitalization, and an increase in healthcare expenditure in all countries. In an increasingly ageing population, many members are exposed to flu-related complications. Vaccination coverage rates for the elderly in most European countries, such as Italy, are not satisfactory, and have been decreasing with time due to a sense of skepticism toward vaccination. Nowadays, many types of vaccines are available on the Italian market to prevent influenza illness. Many studies have proven their effectiveness in preventing influenza-related complications in specific risk groups. Any vaccine can be crucial to avoid complications, hospitalizations and death, but use of the most appropriate vaccine could optimize the result at a very modest cost. General practitioners (GPs) should encourage their patients to take the influenza vaccination to prevent complications or deaths. Health authorities should give GPs the opportunity to choose the appropriate vaccines tailored to specific patients.