Seasonal and Influenza A (H1N1) 2009 Monovalent [2009 H1N1] Vaccine Coverage Among Healthcare Personnel in the Indian Health Service

Background: The Indian Health Service (IHS) monitors seasonal influenza vaccination coverage annually among its healthcare personnel (HCP).  This year, coverage with 2009 H1N1 vaccine among HCP will also be assessed, and information regarding barriers to both seasonal and 2009 H1N1 influenza vaccination will be collected. Reporting is required for IHS facilities, and optional for all other facilities. For the 2008-2009 influenza season, seasonal influenza vaccine coverage among IHS HCP was 74%.

Objectives: 1. To assess seasonal and 2009 H1N1 influenza vaccine coverage among IHS healthcare personnel. 2. To identify potential barriers to seasonal and 2009 H1N1 influenza vaccination among IHS healthcare personnel.

Methods: HCP were defined as anybody who worked in an IHS, Tribal or Urban Indian  (I/T/U) facility, regardless of patient contact. A web-based reporting tool will be used to collect data from participating facilities on the number of HCP who received, refused for personal reasons, or had a medical contraindication for, seasonal and 2009 H1N1 influenza vaccine. Facility respondents will also be asked to identify barriers expressed by HCP for not receiving seasonal and 2009 H1N1 influenza vaccines. Reports will be collected for the period ending 12/31/2009 and again for the period ending 3/31/10.

Results: Reports for the 2009-2010 season are due by Jan. 21^st, 2009  and will reflect seasonal and 2009 H1N1 influenza vaccination coverage levels as of 12/31/2009.  Coverage by facility type (I, T or U) as well as by IHS Area will be provided

Conclusions:Data regarding seasonal influenza vaccination and perceived barriers will be used to improve HCP vaccination efforts for next influenza season. Data on 2009 H1N1 influenza vaccination coverage levels and perceived barriers to 2009 H1N1 vaccination will be helpful in planning for future influenza pandemics.