H1N1 Influenza Vaccine Distribution and Reporting In New York City

Background: In 2009, the New York City (NYC) Health Department (DOHMH) distributed 2009 monovalent H1N1 influenza A vaccine (pH1N1) to NYC medical providers.  Providers were required to report patient-level data on doses administered to the Citywide Immunization Registry (CIR).The reporting requirement routinely includes individuals 0-18 years and was expanded to include adults ≥19 years. To facilitate provider communication, DOHMH sent weekly e-mail/fax updates on vaccine availability and administration; bolstered its hotline; and established an email address for inquiries.

Objectives: To determine: number of vaccine doses administered compared to doses reported; completeness of reporting by provider type; and, satisfaction with DOHMH communications.

Methods: 3,284 facilities that received pH1N1 vaccine were stratified into 9 types based on population served. Of these, DOHMH conducted a phone survey among a random 12% sample (395 facilities) in March-April 2010.  

Results: 228 facilities completed the survey (58% response rate), 147 (65%) of which reported to the CIR (residential facilities: 44% (4/9); private hospitals: 82% (14/17). Of doses distributed, private pediatricians reported the highest percentage (47.3%) and residential facilities the lowest (4.2%) Of 116,600 doses received by sampled providers, 39,423 were reported to the CIR; 9,297 doses were administered but not reported (81% reporting completeness).Of the remaining 67,880 doses, 27,812 were reported as unused or spoiled; 40,068 doses were unaccounted for. 164 providers (64%) reported receiving weekly updates: 96% found them helpful. 26% of providers emailed DOHMH; 88% received a response within 48 hours (98% satisfaction rate). Of the 39% of providers who called DOHMH, 84% spoke to a representative within 24 hours (90% satisfaction rate).

Conclusions: Required reporting of pH1N1 doses was feasible for a range of provider types. This study suggests that 58% of doses distributed were unused. Despite the challenges of vaccine distribution, providers reported a high level of satisfaction with DOHMH procedures and communications.