Going Viral: A Targeted Strategy to increase Flu-Vaccine Uptake in Older Adults
This qualitative study explores reasons why older adults in Toronto decline the flu vaccine, revealing concerns about efficacy, side effects, and access, and offering recommendations to improve uptake through education and accessibility.
Background
Background and Objectives: Older adults are at an elevated risk of complications from influenza, influenza-related hospitalization, and death. However, uptake of the influenza or “flu” vaccine by older adults remains suboptimal. This study seeks to understand why older adults (i.e., people aged 65 and above) are hesitant, or refuse to receive the seasonal flu vaccine. Research Design and Methods: For this qualitative research, data was collected through a semi-structured focus group with 5 older adults, living in Toronto Canada, who chose not to take the flu vaccine. Results: From the data collected, it was found that older adults’ perceptions of, and accessibility to the vaccine influenced their uptake. Reluctance to get vaccinated occurred if older adults were doubtful of the vaccine’s efficacy, cautious about its potentially adverse side effects, or unsure whether it was necessary at all, while uptake increased if older adults could easily afford and conveniently access the shot. Discussion and Implications: In order to protect the health of older adults and ensure high vaccination rates in this population, education and public health messaging should explicitly outline the severe risks associated with remaining unvaccinated later in life and provide clear and direct communication to encourage uptake. Polices must ensure that vaccines are widely available and accessible at no cost to older adults, and health care providers must actively educate older patients and endorse flu vaccination, to maximize uptake.
Project team
- Muhammad Mustafa
TRP supervisors
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