Alentejo Leads Portugal in Senior Flu Vaccination Rates | Flu Vaccine Update

The Alentejo region of Portugal is demonstrating exceptional success in influenza vaccination efforts, particularly among its older population. Recent data from the Vacinómetro, a project monitoring vaccination coverage, highlights the region’s leading position in protecting its residents against the flu. This achievement comes as Portugal aims to meet the World Health Organization’s (WHO) target of 75% vaccination coverage for at-risk groups.

Alentejo’s High Coverage Rates

According to figures released by the Sociedade Portuguesa de Pneumologia (SPP) and the Associação Portuguesa de Medicina Geral e Familiar (APMGF), 85.4% of individuals aged 65 and over in the Alentejo region have received the influenza vaccine. This places Alentejo at the forefront of national vaccination rates. Nationally, 73.5% of those 65 and older have been vaccinated, falling slightly short of the WHO’s recommended 75% threshold. The Vacinómetro project, launched in 2009, utilizes telephone surveys to track vaccination rates in key priority groups, as recommended by the Direção-Geral da Saúde (DGS).

The success extends to the oldest age groups within Alentejo. An impressive 88.5% of individuals aged 85 and over have been immunized. High vaccination rates are also observed among individuals with chronic illnesses, with over 85% vaccinated, particularly those with respiratory diseases, diabetes, or cardiovascular conditions. You can learn more about the Vacinómetro project and its methodology on the Sociedade Portuguesa de Pneumologia website.

National Vaccination Campaign and Physician Recommendations

The influenza vaccination campaign in Portugal began at the end of September, and to date, more than 2.5 million people have been vaccinated through health centers and pharmacies, according to the DGS. The data also indicates that a physician’s recommendation remains a primary driver for vaccine acceptance among the population. This underscores the importance of healthcare professionals in promoting vaccination and addressing patient concerns.

Understanding the Vacinómetro Methodology

The Vacinómetro employs a CATI (Computer Assisted Telephone Interviewing) system to gather data through telephone questionnaires. The study focuses on four key groups: individuals aged 60-64, those 65 and over, individuals with chronic diseases, and healthcare workers. A random sample of 1200 individuals is surveyed in phases, with 300 participants from each group. This methodology allows for real-time monitoring of vaccination coverage and provides valuable insights into the factors influencing vaccine uptake. More details about the methodology can be found in a PDF document outlining the project: Vacinómetro® PDF.

The Importance of Influenza Vaccination and WHO Goals

Influenza, commonly known as the flu, is a contagious respiratory illness that can cause mild to severe illness. While most people recover within a week or two, the flu can lead to serious complications, particularly for vulnerable populations like the elderly and those with chronic health conditions. Vaccination is the most effective way to prevent influenza and its complications. The WHO sets annual targets for influenza vaccination coverage to reduce the global burden of the disease. The 75% target for at-risk groups aims to protect those most susceptible to severe illness and reduce the strain on healthcare systems.

Alentejo’s Success in Context: Regional Variations

While Alentejo leads the way, vaccination rates vary across Portugal. The Radiocampanario.com reports that the Alentejo region’s success highlights the potential for achieving high vaccination coverage when targeted efforts are implemented. Understanding the factors contributing to Alentejo’s success – such as strong healthcare infrastructure, effective communication campaigns, and proactive physician engagement – could inform strategies to improve vaccination rates in other regions.

What Comes Next: Continued Monitoring and Future Campaigns

The Vacinómetro project has concluded its reporting for the 2025/2026 influenza season, providing a valuable snapshot of vaccination coverage in Portugal. However, ongoing monitoring and evaluation are crucial to assess the effectiveness of vaccination campaigns and identify areas for improvement. The DGS will continue to track influenza activity and vaccination rates through its routine surveillance systems. Future campaigns will likely focus on reinforcing the importance of vaccination, addressing vaccine hesitancy, and ensuring equitable access to vaccines for all eligible individuals. Public health officials will also continue to analyze data to understand the impact of vaccination on influenza-related morbidity, and mortality.