Influenza vaccination coverage and its influencing factors among older people in Shanghai, China: A cross-sectional study

Introduction Older people have the highest risk of mortality from influenza, and vaccination is the most effective prevention measure. As one of the most developed cities worldwide, Shanghai faces a rapid increase of proportion of older people. However, In Shanghai and most cities of China, the influenza vaccine has not been covered by the national Expanded Program of Immunization, and little is known regarding influenza vaccine usage among older individuals. This study aimed to assess the influenza vaccination coverage rate (VCR) among older people in Shanghai during the 2016–17 influenza season and to determine the reasons for vaccination or non-vaccination. The findings of this study are intended to provide scientific evidence for the implementation of appropriate strategies and programs targeting older people. Methods A retrospective cross-sectional survey was conducted in September 2017 in 24 randomly selected communities from 46 ones in this district. In total, 4417 participants were selected from community-dwelling people aged 60 and older using quota sampling in each community. Influenza vaccination status in 2016–17 season and the related reasons for receiving or not receiving the influenza vaccine were investigated via face-to-face interview. Vaccination coverage rate was calculated and adjusted by gender and age. Logistic regression was used to assess the influencing factors of vaccination status. Results In total, 253 respondents received an influenza vaccine during the 2016–17 influenza epidemic season, yielding an adjusted vaccination rate of 5.16% (95% confidence interval, 4.48–5.84). The coverage rate was not associated with gender, age, education, household income or underlying chronic diseases. The likelihood of receiving the vaccine was higher for older people living with family/friends than those living alone ( P Conclusions Influenza vaccination coverage is very low among older people in Shanghai, and public awareness of the influenza vaccine needs to be enhanced. Our results highlight the need for an appropriate influenza vaccination strategy and program targeting the older population.