European policymakers are convening in Brussels to address a gap in health strategy, focusing on how vaccination against respiratory infections can reduce cardiovascular disease. The March 18 event titled “Council recommendation on the value of immunisation against respiratory infections: a step towards an EU Respiratory Health Plan?” was hosted by Cypriot MEP Michalis Hadjipantela (EPP Group). It brought together experts and EU representatives to discuss a draft report on an EU cardiovascular diseases strategy, which currently lacks specific mention of respiratory vaccines as a preventive tool.
Missed Opportunities in the Draft Report
The first draft of the European Parliament SANT Committee’s report on the EU cardiovascular diseases strategy (2025/2132(INI)) was published on January 19, 2026. According to Mariano Votta and Bianca Ferraiolo of Cittadinanzattiva–Active Citizenship Network, the document does not acknowledge the significant preventive role of vaccination against respiratory infections in reducing cardiovascular disease. This omission stands in contrast to the European Commission’s “EU Safe Hearts Plan,” which recognises the value of respiratory immunisation and proposes a Council Recommendation on the subject.
The upcoming policy dialogue aims to influence the report before it goes to a plenary vote in mid-June. The Steering Group on Prevention of Respiratory Infections has put forward amendments in line with its Manifesto. Additionally, the “EU Working Group on Respiratory Care” launched a Call to Action to ensure specific needs are embedded in a unified European framework.
Recent Developments in Immunisation
The beginning of 2026 brought significant news regarding immunisation policies at the European level. Measles “re-established” itself in six European countries, prompting concern among experts at its return to nations that had previously eliminated the disease. More positively, the European Commission is investing €225 million in the development of next-generation influenza vaccines. These vaccines offer protection against a wider range of variants, can be quickly adapted if a pandemic strain emerges, and are easier to administer.
Furthermore, the European Medicines Agency recently recommended granting marketing authorisation for the first combined vaccine in the European Union to protect people aged 50 years and older against both seasonal influenza and COVID-19. These developments highlight a growing focus on full respiratory protection.
Stakeholder Engagement and Support
Hosted by the MEPs Interest Group “European Patients’ Rights & Cross-border Healthcare,” the event promotes the EU project “Advancing Respiratory Care at the EU Level.” Active Citizenship Network and the RPP Group promoted the “EU Working Group on Respiratory Care.” Scientific societies, academia, professional associations, patient groups, and the private sector are among the stakeholders emphasising the need for the report to reflect the preventive benefits of respiratory vaccines.
Registration for the in-person event at the EU Parliament in Brussels is free but mandatory. Attendance is on a first-come, first-served basis, with capacity limits. The initiative has been made possible thanks to the unconditional support of Pfizer.
