A systematic review of the evidence on the effectiveness and risks of inactivated influenza vaccines in different target groups

► The content of 11 Cochrane reviews regarding the value of inactivated influenza vaccines (TIV) summarized and updated. ► Significant efficacy of TIV in healthy adults and children (>6 years, Grade A evidence). ► No efficacy of TIV in young children (<2 years) or institutionalised elderly. ► Inconsistent results in children (<6 years), individuals with COPD, institutionalised elderly, elderly with co-morbidities and healthcare workers in elderly homes. ► Striking lack of sound evidence for the effect of TIV on influenza complications (GRADE B, C or not existing).