Influenza vaccination rates among Asian, Hispanics, and Blacks in New York City

Background:

Influenza is a major cause of illness and death in the US. Influenza and pneumonia together are the third leading cause of death in New York City (NYC). Since 2010, annual influenza vaccination has been universally recommended for everyone ages >six months of age.

Methods:

REACH U.S. Risk Factor Survey data targeting racial/ethnic minority populations in New York City (NYC), from 2009-2012 yielded approximately 4,306 Asian Americans, 2,978 Blacks, and 4,943 Hispanic adults. Unadjusted analyses of having received the influenza vaccine in the past 12 months was run by race/ethnicity, age (18-39, 40-64, and ≥65), household income and health insurance status. 

Results:

Among Asians, 55.4% received an influenza vaccination, followed by 53.1% of Hispanics, and 47.4% of Blacks. Overall, women and older individuals were more likely to have been vaccinated. For older Hispanics (≥65) 70.4%, Blacks (62.6%) and the highest rates were among older Asians (82.9%) but differences reported by Asian subgroup (Chinese (85.1%), Korean (80.2%), and Asian Indians (65.9%)). Generally, less educated individuals reported being vaccinated compared to more educated individuals across racial/ethnic groups. Across all groups, individuals with health insurance had higher rates of vaccination.

Discussion: The national target of 80% for individuals 18-49 and 90% for individuals ≥65 has not been reached among NYC racial/ethnic populations. Variations in vaccination were found by racial/ethnic group, age, and insurance. Findings can help identify subgroups (older Blacks and Asian Indians) for targeted educational and awareness campaigns to maximize limited public health resources and funding and increase citywide vaccination coverage.