Influenza Control focuses on reducing the spread, severity, and societal impact of influenza through integrated immunological, public health, and preventive strategies. Seasonal influenza continues to pose a significant burden due to viral variability, uneven immunity, and fluctuating vaccine effectiveness. This session examines how immune science, surveillance, and prevention measures work together to limit transmission and protect vulnerable populations.

Effective control of influenza depends on understanding viral evolution and host immune responses. Antigenic drift and shift challenge long-term immunity and require continual adaptation of preventive strategies. These dynamics are frequently discussed at leading Vaccine Conferences, where researchers evaluate immune correlates of protection, vaccine strain selection, and population-level immunity trends. This session highlights how immunological insight informs both routine prevention and outbreak preparedness.

A central theme of this session is influenza prevention strategies, which include vaccination, antiviral use, non-pharmaceutical interventions, and risk communication. Vaccination remains the cornerstone of influenza control, yet its impact is influenced by timing, coverage, and immune match with circulating strains. This session explores how immune memory, age-related immunity, and prior exposure shape vaccine response and inform tailored prevention approaches.

Influenza control also relies on coordinated surveillance and rapid response. Monitoring viral circulation, immune escape patterns, and disease severity enables timely public health action. The session addresses how integrating immunology with epidemiology strengthens early warning systems and guides resource allocation during peak seasons. Equity considerations, including access to vaccines and healthcare services, are emphasized as essential components of effective influenza control.

Beyond seasonal epidemics, influenza control contributes to broader pandemic preparedness. Lessons learned from routine influenza prevention inform strategies for managing emerging respiratory threats. By connecting immune science with policy and practice, this session provides a comprehensive perspective on controlling influenza across diverse populations and healthcare settings.