Sanofi recently hosted a hybrid symposium titled “Safeguarding High-Risk Groups: The Importance of Flu Prevention and Effective Communication,” bringing together 380 healthcare professionals from South-East Asia and India to address influenza’s impact on vulnerable populations.
Panel session
The symposium highlighted seasonal influenza’s disproportionate effects on high-risk groups, particularly adults aged 65+, and those with chronic conditions like diabetes and cardiovascular diseases. Prof. Sasisopin Kiertiburanakul, from Mahidol University and Vice President of the Infectious Disease Association of Thailand delivered the keynote on regional influenza epidemiology.
Recent WHO data shows influenza affects approximately 1 billion people annually worldwide. with 3-5 million severe cases, resulting in 290,000-650,000 deaths globally.
“These figures are particularly alarming for vulnerable populations. Influenza can trigger severe complications including pneumonia, myocardial infarction, worsen existing conditions and lead to death,” said Prof. Sasisopin Kiertiburanakul. “Safeguarding vulnerable people with flu vaccination is safe and effective. Evidence shows it significantly reduces hospitalizations and mortality among our most vulnerable people. It represents a sound investment in public health.”
The event featured interactive sessions where medical experts from Thailand, Malaysia and Vietnam discussed the critical importance of influenza vaccination for high-risk groups, including people with cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and older adults. Despite diverse attitudes towards vaccines, experts emphasized that improving access to flu immunization and implementing effective, evidence-based communication strategies are key to reach WHO’s target of 75% influenza vaccination coverage among high-risk populations.
“At Sanofi, we believe protecting vulnerable groups against flu requires a well-rounded approach. Through this symposium, we’re empowering healthcare professionals with the tools and knowledge they need to better protect those most at risk in our communities,” emphasized Ruby Dizon, Vaccines Medical Head of Sanofi Southeast Asia and India.
Participants gained practical insights on addressing common misconceptions about influenza prevention and learned techniques for framing conversations around the specific benefits for high-risk patients. The symposium concluded with a call to action urging healthcare professionals to unite in protecting vulnerable groups through appropriate flu vaccination.
For high-risk individuals, protection against influenza isn’t just a routine health measure—it’s protection beyond flu including against potentially devastating complications. Through this initiative, Sanofi continues its commitment to reducing the global burden of influenza by supporting healthcare professionals with evidence-based strategies and combating misinformation about flu vaccinations to improve quality of life.
