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The 130th Annual Meeting of APHA |
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The 130th Annual Meeting of APHA |
Lisa D Dillard, RN, BSN1, Ramona Ezell, BSN, RN2, Sandra Gaddy, RN, BSN2, Julia Howard, RN, BSN2, Brenda Jackson, RN, BSN2, Kathryn J. Long, RN, BSN, CIC2, Shealia S. Miller, RN, BSN2, Paula Tucker, RN, BSN2, Teresa C. Welch, RN, BSN2, and Khosrow Heidari, MA, MS, MS3. (1) SC DHEC, 975-C N. Church Street, Spartanburg, SC 29303, (2) App III Health District, SC DHEC, 975-C N. Church Street, Spartanburg, SC 29303, (3) Bureau of Epidemiology, SC DHEC, 1800 St Julian Place, Suite 406, Columbia, SC 29204, 8035454921, DILLARLD@SPRTNB60.dhec.state.sc.us
In one of South Carolina health districts, Appalachia III, we conducted a survey during 2001 Fall season to study the status of flu and pneumococcal vaccine coverage among the Seniors as well as to determine the rate of this coverage. We analyzed a sample of 527 self-administered questionnaire. We found 66% indicated they received a flu shot within last 12 months which is different from the Behavior Risk Factor Surveillance System (BRFSS) results at the state- or even district- level estimates. Furthermore, we observed racial disparities in flu (46% black and 67% of white) and pneumonia (34% black and 58% of white) vaccines coverage. In our examining the reasons for not receiving the vaccine(s), we found lack of appropriate information ranging from source of pay to some myth and misgivings about the vaccines were among barriers to vaccination. For example, about one half of black respondents and one third of whites did not know that the flu shots were safe and would not cause sickness.
As a result of this survey, we have outreached to communities that have traditionally not been approached. We will repeat this survey at the end of this year’s flu season in our region to determine the impact of what we have learned and put in practice throughout our district.
Learning Objectives:
Keywords: Immunizations, Barriers to Care
Presenting author's disclosure statement:
I have a significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.
Relationship: Employment