Overview

• Italy recorded 16.13 million influenza-like illness cases during the 2024–25 season, the highest ever monitored by the ISS.
• A diverse mix of A/H1, A/H3, and B strains contributed to the surge, leaving large portions of the population susceptible.
• Vaccination coverage among Italians over 65 reached only 53%, falling significantly below the 70% target recommended by health authorities.
• The European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control and the CDC confirmed intense flu seasons across Europe and the U.S., with U.S. estimates reaching up to 82 million cases and 130,000 deaths.
• Experts project that annual flu cases in Italy could climb to 20 million in future seasons without stronger vaccination campaigns and preventive measures.