Influenza and pneumococcal vaccination in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)

Patients who suffer from chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) often experience acute exacerbations, which frequently require hospitalization and lead to increased mortality. The most common causes of exacerbation are viruses, bacteria, and air pollutants. The risk of influenza and pneumococcal-related hospitalization and death has been shown to be high among COPD sufferers of all ages.Influenza vaccination has shown itself to be effective in reducing morbidity and mortality in patients with underlying chronic respiratory diseases. Pneumococcal vaccine is effective in reducing the incidence of invasive disease. Therefore, COPD sufferers are a target group to be vaccinated against influenza and pneumococcus.Several coverage studies have identified non-compliant subjects and factors associated with influenza and pneumococcal vaccination recommendations. Age-based strategies have proved better than vaccinating high-risk-specific groups. Joint administration of influenza and pneumococcal vaccination has shown beneficial additive effects. Notwithstanding, implementation of some other strategies are needed to improve coverage.