IMA and Abbott Launch Indian Immunisation Week to Promote Influenza Vaccination

The Indian Medical Association (IMA) and Abbott have launched Indian Immunisation Week, running from September 21 to 27, 2026, to promote awareness about annual influenza vaccination and preventive healthcare.

The initiative comes with a particular focus on improving vaccination awareness among people who face a higher risk from influenza, including young children, older adults, pregnant women, people with chronic health conditions and healthcare workers. ([Express Healthcare][1])

According to the report, adult vaccination coverage in India remains low. National Sample Survey data cited by the initiative shows that only 1.98% of adults and 0.40% of people aged 60 and above had received vaccinations. ([Express Healthcare][1])

One issue the campaign is addressing is confusion around vaccination during or after illness. IMA and Abbott have introduced expert-reviewed clinical guidance explaining when vaccination can proceed in people experiencing mild to moderate illness.

The initiative is intended to encourage people to discuss vaccination with healthcare professionals and make informed decisions based on their individual health circumstances.

Influenza can affect people differently depending on age, pregnancy status and underlying health conditions. For this reason, preventive healthcare campaigns often focus on people who may face a greater risk of complications.

The week-long campaign also highlights the importance of correcting health misinformation. Confusion about vaccines can lead people to delay or miss recommended preventive care.

For healthcare professionals, the initiative provides an opportunity to reinforce conversations around annual influenza vaccination and appropriate timing.

For the public, its central message is straightforward: vaccination decisions should be based on reliable medical information rather than social-media claims or assumptions.

The collaboration between a professional medical association and a healthcare company also illustrates the growing role of public-private partnerships in health awareness campaigns.

Indian Immunisation Week will run through September 27, with the campaign focusing on influenza vaccination, preventive healthcare and evidence-based information.