Vaccination and lung health


Vaccination is one of the most effective ways to prevent infectious diseases that can affect the lungs, such as influenza and pneumococcal disease.

Vaccines work by helping the immune system recognise and respond to infections more effectively. This reduces the risk of becoming seriously ill and helps prevent the spread of infections to others, including people who may be more vulnerable.

By protecting individuals, vaccination also helps protect wider communities and reduce pressure on healthcare systems.

Information resources

Find trusted information on vaccination and lung health from the European Lung Foundation (ELF), including clear explanations of how vaccines work and why they are important for lung health.

These resources help you understand the benefits of vaccination and how it contributes to keeping lungs healthy across all ages.

Understanding vaccination


Vaccines help prepare the body’s immune system to recognise and fight infections before they cause serious illness. They are one of the most effective ways to protect against infections that affect the lungs. Vaccination is especially important for people with long-term lung conditions, older adults, young children and others who may be at higher risk of complications from lung infections.

People may have questions about vaccines, including how they work and what to expect. Access to clear, trusted information can help support informed decisions. It is important to discuss any concerns with healthcare professionals, who can provide personalised advice based on individual health needs.

Vaccination helps:

  • reduce the risk of serious lung infections
  • protect people at higher risk of illness
  • limit the spread of infection in communities
  • support healthier populations overall

By choosing vaccination, individuals also help protect those around them who may be more vulnerable.

Community resources and campaign materials

To support awareness and understanding of vaccination, ELF provides campaign materials that can be used and shared within communities. These materials are designed to support clear communication about vaccination and provide accessible, easy-to-understand information for the public.

These resources help explain:

  • how vaccines protect lung health
  • why vaccination is important for individuals and communities
  • answers to common questions about respiratory vaccines
  • where to find trusted health information

Downloadable materials to be used in your community settings such as clinics, workplaces, patient groups and public events, will be available soon.

Explore other themes


Vaccinate is one of six Healthy Lungs for Life themes: