Influenza vaccination in Switzerland

Influenza is still an important cause of morbidity and mortality in our country The yearly vaccination of the population at risk is always the best method of prevention and for the limitation of health care costs. Today the protection of elderly people and health care professionals by vaccination is not sufficient. Development of information programs, sensibilisation and motivation of the community on a national basis and in line with the health care insurers are necessary. The vaccin's reimboursment since 1996 following the respective legal change will certainly help to promote vaccination against influenza. On the other hand, the competition of different vaccins introduced in Switzerland in the last years will additionally support the penetration of information and vaccination.