Overcoming barriers to adult immunization in Europe: A decalogue for policy action by the Adult Immunization Board

Adult immunization is a critical yet underdeveloped area within European public health, as fragmented systems and implementation barriers persist. With a growing burden of vaccine-preventable diseases among adults due to demographic aging and emerging pathogens, this policy comment aims to address key barriers impeding a high vaccination uptake, including data availability, feasibility issues, political and financial constraints, vaccine confidence and literacy among the population and healthcare providers, and access issues and organization. Drawing on insights from Adult Immunization Board (AIB) meetings and discussions, a decalogue of actionable policy recommendations is proposed to overcome these barriers. This comprehensive strategy underscores the need for coordinated, multidisciplinary efforts and sustained political commitment to optimize adult immunization programs, leveraging lessons from the recent COVID-19 pandemic response.