The seasonal influenza-vaccinated population in the seven major markets (7MM*) is projected to increase from 270 million in 2022 to 284 million in 2032, with an annual growth rate (AGR) of 0.5%, according to GlobalData, a leading data and analytics company.

GlobalData’s latest report “Seasonal Influenza Vaccines: Epidemiology Forecast to 2032,” estimates that in 2032, the US will have the highest number of vaccinated population in the 7MM, with more than 171 million vaccinated people, whereas Spain will have the fewest, with approximately 11.6 million vaccinated. According to GlobalData estimates, there will be 78 million vaccinated population in the 5EU** in 2032.

Bishal Bhandari, PhD, Managing Epidemiologist at GlobalData, comments: “The overall vaccinated population for seasonal influenza will increase across all the 7MM, with the largest increase seen in the US. This is likely attributed to the improved vaccination rate and the changes in the underlying population demographics in these markets.”

Seasonal influenza affects people of all ages, but young children and the elderly are most vulnerable to infections, either due to immature or weak immune systems or underlying chronic conditions. There is a fluctuation in cases of seasonal influenza each year, and it depends on variation in influenza epidemics and vaccination programs in each market. Vaccination programs targeting the elderly and vulnerable population help mitigate the worst effects of infection and reduce the burden on health services.

Bhandari concludes: “Seasonal influenza is a respiratory virus with symptoms similar to COVID-19, which poses a challenge for accurate diagnosis and treatment. Seasonal influenza is contagious and has more severe symptoms in the elderly and immunocompromised, and like COVID-19, it requires precautions in mitigating transmission and vaccination. There should be greater public provision to encourage vaccination for both influenza and COVID-19, especially in the elderly and clinically vulnerable population.”

*7MM: The US, France, Germany, Italy, Spain, the UK, and Japan.

**5EU: France, Germany, Italy, Spain, and the UK.