Learning Objectives for this Presentation:
1. By the end of the presentation participants will be able to describe safety concerns acting as barriers to older African Americans influenza vaccination.
2. By the end of the presentation participants will be able to recognize the differences between concerns that providers and older African American patients see as barriers to vaccination.


Background:
Adults 65 and older are at greatest risk for death and complications from influenza. Only two-thirds of those at-risk receive the vaccination, with African American rates even lower.

Objectives:
In older African Americans, explore the safety, adverse events, and other concerns related to influenza vaccination; perceptions of vaccine effectiveness; and determine if providers are aware of and understand these concerns.

Methods:
Focus groups and in-depth interviews with older African Americans and vaccine providers.

Results:
Fear of getting the flu from vaccination was widespread as were concerns about vaccine interaction with medications and allergic reactions. Older African Americans also doubted vaccine effectiveness. Many were distrustful of the vaccine and government. Providers recognized patients' concerns, especially recognizing fear of illness was a major concern. Providers were aware medication interaction fears were present, however, did not realize the need to inquire about and discuss allergies or medications when administering the vaccine. Providers realized older African Americans were distrustful of the medical care system stemming from past discrimination like the Tuskegee Syphilis Study; however, they didn't recognize the magnitude of these concerns. Providers believed the vaccine was effective but were unaware the extent which older African Americans questioned it.

Conclusions:
Providers should know and understand barriers older African Americans face when determining whether to get vaccinated. Older African Americans want providers to take time discussing the vaccine with them and addressing issues that are not currently address such as vaccine efficacy, integrity, side-effects and drug interactions