In Sardinia, only 37.6% of those over 65 were vaccinated against the flu last year. Although this percentage increased by 0.3% compared to 2023 (37.3%) , the island is second to last nationally, preceded only by the Autonomous Province of Bolzano with 33.4% . The region with the highest rate of vaccinations administered is Umbria with 64.1%, compared to the Italian average of 52.5%.

This is what emerges from the analysis by the Research Office of Confartigianato Imprese Sardegna, which examined the data released by the Ministry of Health for 2023-2024.

The data also shows that only 19.6% of the total Italian population has been vaccinated against the flu, a sharp decline from 2023 when 20.2% were vaccinated.

Flu, while seemingly a trivial and seasonal illness, poses a significant risk to the elderly, especially due to the respiratory complications it can cause. The flu vaccination campaign for those over 65 is free and takes place every fall, starting in October.

"Elderly and vulnerable people should get vaccinated: it's a crucial step not only for their own safety, but also for the protection of the entire community ," says Giovanni Antonio Mellino, President of ANAP Sardinia and National Vice President of the National Association of Seniors and Pensioners of Confartigianato. "Given the delicate situation of Sardinia's healthcare system, even a simple flu risks placing further pressure on clinics, general practitioners, and emergency rooms, as well as burdening the families of those affected. Following the controversy surrounding COVID-19 vaccines, a certain mistrust of vaccinations has spread ," Mellino continues. " Therefore, it is necessary to reassure citizens of the safety of these vaccines, as potential side effects are well-known and easily manageable. The flu, which many consider a minor ailment, can actually have serious consequences: every year, there are hospitalizations in intensive care and, unfortunately, avoidable deaths. We also remind you that the flu vaccine is free for those over 60,” Mellino adds. “In addition to preventing serious complications, it allows you to avoid days in bed with a fever and allows you to continue your daily family and social activities. Prevention remains the most effective way to safeguard your personal health and that of your loved ones. Last but not least,” he concludes, “we would like to express our heartfelt thanks to all healthcare workers, family doctors, pediatricians, and pharmacies for their ongoing commitment to promoting prevention and information, especially for the elderly and the most vulnerable.”

With the arrival of autumn and winter, concerns about the spread of seasonal influenza, a respiratory disease that affects millions of people worldwide each year, are growing. Among the groups most vulnerable to the serious effects of influenza are those over 65. In this context, influenza vaccination plays a crucial role in protecting the health of this population group and reducing the risk of complications.

As older people age, their immune systems tend to weaken, making them more susceptible to infections. For those over 65, contracting the flu isn't just about experiencing symptoms like fever, muscle aches, and fatigue; the virus can cause serious complications, such as pneumonia, the worsening of chronic conditions (such as diabetes or cardiovascular disease), and, in some cases, can even be fatal. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), most seasonal flu-related deaths occur among older people and those with pre-existing health conditions.

The flu vaccine is therefore a fundamental preventive tool that, through a simple injection, offers significant protection against the influenza virus. By providing prophylaxis for those over 65, the vaccine significantly reduces the risk of contracting the flu and, if infected, can reduce its severity. Those who are vaccinated are less likely to develop pulmonary, cardiovascular, and metabolic complications that can arise following a flu infection. Studies also show that vaccination helps reduce the number of hospitalizations among the elderly, easing the burden on the healthcare system and reducing the risk of exposure to further infections. By preventing influenza, the vaccine helps keep the elderly population active and healthy, reducing periods of illness and promoting a more independent lifestyle.

(Unioneonline)

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