Using nontraditional methods to engage young adults in the promotion of influenza vaccination

Influenza is estimated to be responsible for more than 200,000 hospitalizations and an average of roughly 23,000 deaths annually. During the 2012-2013 flu season, less than one-third of Texans ages 18-49 were vaccinated. Cultural perceptions regarding vaccination are strong predictors of an adult’s decision to vaccinate. Peer-to-peer health education programs have been found to be effective locally-tailored interventions at modifying community attitudes and personal behavior in public health arenas, such as HIV prevention. However, few studies have examined the impact of multi-level, peer-to-peer health education interventions to promote flu vaccination among younger adults. In an effort to reach adults 18 to 49 and contribute to the literature on this topic, The Immunization Partnership designed an online health education program that trains young adults to promote flu vaccination in their communities. A small pilot of the program will be conducted in the spring of 2014 with college and graduate-level students, studying in Houston, Texas. Participants will be trained using an online curriculum centered on an interactive platform. The program will culminate in a practical application component, requiring participants to present the information to three groups or organizations within their social networks and communities. Using a multi-step process involving baseline and post-intervention surveys, the program will be monitored and evaluated in order to measure the knowledge, attitudes and behaviors of program participants. Results of the pilot study will demonstrate the utility of multi-level interventions incorporating technology and culturally-embedded spokespersons to promote flu vaccination in undervaccinated populations.