This policy dialogue is the second in a series convened under the APEC Health Working Group to address the rising burden of influenza among older adults across the region. Building directly on the outcomes of the inaugural 2025 dialogue — including its associated recommendations paper — this session shifted focus to a central operational question: how can economies move from evidence to implementation?

Participants reviewed emerging real-world and randomized trial evidence on influenza burden and vaccine performance in aging populations, examined policy pathways toward enhanced influenza vaccines, and shared practical lessons on the enabling conditions for sustained action. Speakers highlighted persistent under-recognition of influenza-related severe outcomes among the elderly, the limits of standard-dose vaccination strategies in the context of immunosenescence, and the critical role of financing mechanisms, provider incentives, surveillance systems, and trusted communication in translating evidence into policy.

Economy presentations illustrated concrete, evidence-based pathways to policy change — from advisory committee processes and cost-effectiveness analysis to phased procurement and implementation frameworks — offering lessons that others across the region can adapt to their own contexts. Regional assessments further underscored the persistent surveillance gaps and data linkage challenges that continue to limit burden estimation and political commitment to investment.

The dialogue concluded with broad agreement that implementation success depends on aligning credible local data, reliable financing and procurement mechanisms, provider engagement, and proactive communication strategies. Participants reaffirmed that APEC platforms remain a vital vehicle for sustaining policy momentum and cross-economy learning on healthy aging and adult immunization.

Please access the summary report here.