Overview of adult immunization in Italy: Successes, lessons learned and the way forward

Abstract

The exchange of knowledge and best practices in adult immunization are essential to improve vaccination strategies across the European region. Italy has made groundbreaking progress in the field, being one of the first countries to propose a life-course vaccination schedule, broadening the traditional focus on childhood immunization to include adults. All vaccines included in Italy’s vaccination schedule are free of charge. Moreover, the country’s National Immunization Plan sets clear coverage targets, immunization priorities, and actions to reduce disparities. However, the fragmentation of its National Health System following the constitutional reform of 2001 has led to an increased complexity and regional inequalities regarding immunization. Other challenges the country faces include growing vaccine hesitancy, data gaps and underserved populations. This review describes Italy’s adult immunization system, from policy to implementation. The successes, challenges and lessons learned were shared during the first Adult Immunization Board country meeting in Italy, where local experts, healthcare providers, public health representatives, and policymakers engaged in collaborative discussions and shared insights through case studies and presentations (December 2023). These insights are reviewed and discussed in this manuscript.