Mariano Votta and Daniela Quaggia of the Active Citizenship Network-Cittadinanzattiva highlight the crucial role of adult immunisation in protecting people with non-communicable diseases and advancing cardiovascular prevention at the upcoming #VaccinAction workshop in Brussels.
Adult immunisation represents a cost-effective strategy to protect people living with non-communicable diseases (NCDs), especially against common respiratory infections such as COVID-19, seasonal influenza, pneumococcal disease, and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV). While adult vaccination is proven to be effective, it remains largely underused in the context of NCDs.
For this reason, the fifth edition of #VaccinAction, the EU initiative led by Active Citizenship Network and dedicated to strengthening adult vaccination and safeguarding the value of routine immunisation across Europe, will focus on the role of immunisation for people living with NCDs.
In particular, the workshop that will take place on October 2nd 2025, in Brussels will explore the critical link between vaccination and chronic conditions, with a focus on cardiovascular diseases. Vaccination is increasingly recognised not only as a shield against infectious diseases but also as an effective preventive measure for cardiovascular conditions in high-risk patients.
This is a pressing public health issue at the European level, as highlighted by the recent public consultation on the European Commission’s “EU Cardiovascular Health Plan” (closed on September 17th 2025), to which Cittadinanzattiva–ACN contributed by advocating for stronger integration of vaccination. The relevance of this topic has also been reinforced by the European Society of Cardiology’s recent declaration: “Vaccination as a new form of cardiovascular prevention”.
Tailored for leaders of Patients Advocacy Groups (PAGs) and Civil Society Organisations (CSOs) engaged in health-related issues within the Active Citizenship Network, the workshop offers a valuable opportunity for information sharing, capacity building, and networking.
It also reaffirms the role of civil society as a bridge between policy and people, between intentions and real impact — including in the field of vaccination, where Active Citizenship Network–Cittadinanzattiva has long contributed to bringing the citizens’ perspective into EU policy debates, both nationally and at the European level.
On October 2nd, together with independent external experts, participants will discuss how immunisation strategies can reduce the burden of NCDs and promote healthier communities. The workshop will also showcase national and international advocacy experiences and best practices for policy change, while engaging participants in the co-creation of communication content to be shared across their countries.
