BACKGROUND:
In Alabama 1,200 people die from flu and pneumonia each year, 90% of which involve people age 65 and older. Many deaths can be prevented with both flu and pneumonia vaccinations.

OBJECTIVE:
The objective of the campaign was to develop and implement an innovative approach to improve pneumonia and flu vaccination rates, targeting Medicare recipients.

METHOD:
“IZ Alabama Covered” Flu & Pneumonia Prevention Campaign has been used to turn the corner on the problem of flu and pneumonia vulnerability in the over 65 population. This comprehensive effort tackles the CDC principles proven to improve immunization rates. It is the first such campaign in the nation, and encompasses a practicable plan of action to raise awareness of our state residents, especially the senior adult population and healthcare professionals. The promotion introduces a pocket-sized registry with a Medicare Card Cover and the active involvement of a cadre of volunteers from a variety of backgrounds.

RESULT:
After only 12 months, almost 1,000 volunteers have delivered 240,000 card covers in 49 of the 67 Alabama counties. Through this activity, many more flu clinics and were added to the 2003 fall calendar across the state. More flu vaccine has been used statewide than ever before due in large part to this campaign.

CONCLUSION:
Our feedback and data suggests this approach has hit the target with healthcare and industry leaders, and beneficiaries with growing media coverage. The effort can be replicated on a local or national level.

LEARNING OBJECTIVES:
1.Recognize that flu and community-acquired pneumonia is a deadly and preventable illness in the elderly.
2.Understand current adult immunization issues, attitudes and CDC recommendations that affect this topic.
3.Identify one practical approach to increase flu and pneumonia vaccination rates, including outcomes data.