Evaluation of elderly immunization coverage against flu

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Abstract

Influenza remains an important cause of illness and death, while worldwide vaccination rates are suboptimal. To estimate the vaccination rate of community dwelling Greek Elders who live in Lamia and to explore their attitudes and beliefs towards influenza vaccination, 235 individuals aged over 65 years were recruited. Contingency tables ere used to analyze the data. Two thirds of the participants had been vaccinated at least once in lifetime. Half of the respondents were vaccinated last year. High educational level, older age and living in a city were associated with a greater probability of being vaccinated. The maim motives and barriers for flu vaccine uptake were: Beliefs about the benefits of influenza vaccination, the recommendation of a health care professional, access to the medical care, living alone, unpleasant past reactions and vaccine shortage. In conclusion, the vaccination rate was low. Health education programs are necessary to increase the uptake of influenza vaccination.

Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)279-284
Number of pages6
JournalReview of Clinical Pharmacology and Pharmacokinetics, International Edition
Volume21
Issue number3
Publication statusPublished - 2007

Keywords

  • Elderly
  • Flu vaccine
  • Health belief
  • Influenza
  • Vaccination

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