Influenza
Vaccination Coverage Improving, More Effort Needed
[Posted 09/29/2008]
The
September 26 Morbidity and Mortality Weekly
Report (MMWR) reported that the number of flu
vaccinations are up, but are still below the targets
set for Healthy People 2010.
The data are derived from the Behavioral Risk Factor
Surveillance System (BRFSS) gathered from the
2006-2007 flu season. The number of vaccinations
have significantly increased over the 2005-2006 flu
season, but is still below coverage targets
established for adults in the Healthy People 2010
initiative.
Healthy People 2010 goals:
18-64 year olds with one or more high-risk
conditions: 60%
all 65 year olds and older: 90%
The BRFSS data:
18-49 year olds with one or more high-risk
conditions: 35.1%
all 50-64 year olds: 42%
all 65 year olds and older: 72.1%
The MMWR urges continued efforts to protect
adults in the US. “To further increase influenza
vaccination coverage among all adults, health-care
providers should recommend influenza vaccination in
accordance with ACIP recommendations throughout the
influenza season. Standing orders for vaccination
should be implemented in various settings, and
reminder and recall systems for patients and
providers should be incorporated into medical
practices and facilities that routinely provide
vaccinations to adults.”
Related Links:
MMWR Article
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