Key risk groups for influenza –
who should consider vaccination

Certain groups are at increased risk for severe disease courses, complications, hospitalization, or death from influenza. The main risk groups include: Older adults: Especially those aged 60 years and above. Young children: Particularly children under 5 years old, with those under 2 at the highest risk, and infants under 6 months are most vulnerable. People with chronic medical conditions, such as: Chronic lung diseases (e.g., asthma, COPD, cystic fibrosis). Heart disease (including congenital heart defects, congestive heart failure, and coronary artery disease). Chronic kidney or liver disorders. Neurological or neurodevelopmental diseases. Diabetes (types 1 and 2). Blood disorders (e.g., sickle cell disease). Metabolic disorders or morbid obesity (BMI ≥40). People with weakened immune systems: Due to HIV/AIDS, cancer, chemotherapy, or immune-suppressing medications. Pregnant women (including up to 2 weeks postpartum). Residents of nursing homes and long-term care facilities. Children and young adults (<19 years) on long-term aspirin or salicylate therapy (risk of Reye’s Syndrome). People with a history of stroke or with certain disabilities —...