'Vaccination fatigue’ post-Covid raises alarm
Greek health officials are raising concerns over declining inoculation rates, citing “vaccination fatigue” from the Covid-19 pandemic.
According to official figures, flu vaccination coverage among healthcare workers dropped significantly – from 38.8% to 21.5% in hospitals and from 57.9% to 32% in health centers – over five years.
In the meantime, Greece saw a 4,800% increase in whooping cough cases in 2024 and three meningitis deaths.
Vaccination coverage remains low for shingles (just above 12%), pneumococcus and HPV, despite the latter preventing several cancers. The flu shot program via pharmacies also faltered, with elderly patients often not taking up the recommended vaccines.
Experts warn that public resistance and professional hesitancy toward vaccination endanger public health gains.
Highlighting the resurgence of measles across Europe, World Health Organization officials have stressed the need for better education and outreach. In view of Immunization Week on April 24-30, they emphasize the need for systemic efforts to rebuild vaccine trust and improve coverage, especially among vulnerable populations.
Kathimerini
