2009 pandemic a/H1N1 vaccination among US aduts: Evaluting the effects of BMI on vaccination uptake

Unlike previous influenza strains, the 2009 A/H1N1 pandemic was the first where obesity was noted as being a risk factor for severe flu complications. While obesity is associated with higher levels of hospitalization and mortality, vaccination may help in reducing the disease burden experienced among at-risk individuals. However, little has been published regarding the prevalence of H1N1 vaccination among the population – especially those who are overweight or obese. This research utilizes the 2010 National Health Interview Survey to estimate A/H1N1 vaccination uptake among US adults while stratifying by BMI. I find that while vaccination percentages differ little by BMI, A/H1N1 vaccination among obese (BMI >29) individuals remained exceptionally low at 19.8%. While the 2009 A/H1N1 pandemic was not as serious as early reports estimated, it still is an example of how the public health system responded in the face of a novel pandemic flu. Addressing low vaccination uptake among at-risk segments of the population will aid officials in preparing for the next pandemic flu outbreak.