Learning Objectives for this Presentation:
By the end of the presentation, participants will be able to understand the impact of the influenza vaccine shortage on the influenza vaccination rate of high risk adults during the 2004 - 2005 influenza season

Background:
Following the announcement of the loss of half of the influenza vaccine supply in October 2004, the remainder of the supply was distibuted through the public health system. Based on need and availability, the local health unit (LHU) of a large metropolitan suburban county distributed a total of 61,610 doses of vaccine over a 2 1/2 month period to 797 physicians in amounts ranging from 10 to 1,000 doses for use for their high risk patients.

Objectives:
To determine the influenza vaccine coverage rates for high risk adults during the 2004 - 2005 influenza vaccine shortage season; to compare the rates with prior years; and to determine the effectiveness of the distribution system in providing vaccine to those in need.

Methods:
Utilizing the A-CASA software program, the LHU conducted adult immunization assessments from a sample of health care provider practices.

Results:
The influenza vaccination rate for adults aged 65 years and older seen between 10/1/04 and 2/28/05 was 79% (range 37% - 100%) and the rate for high risk adults aged 50 - 64 years was 77% (range 18% - 100%). In contrast, in the prior year, the influenza vaccination rate for adults aged 65 years and older was 47% (range 10% - 86%) and the rate for high risk adults aged 50 - 64 years was 33% (range 0% - 77%).

Conclusions:
The influenza vaccination rates for high risk adults were found to be significantly higher for patients seen during the time of shortage as compared to the previous year. The LHU distribution of influenza vaccine to primary care providers in a time of vaccine shortage was effective in reaching the targeted population.