Hospitalization Is an Underutilized Opportunity to Vaccinate for Influenza

Influenza is a common viral cause of acute respiratory tract infections with substantial morbidity and mortality. In the 2017 to 2018 season, influenza resulted in an estimated 49 million illnesses, 960,000 hospitalizations, and 79,000 influenza-associated deaths.1 Although the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices recommends annual influenza vaccination for all individuals 6 months and older without a contraindication, vaccination rates remain low.2 Unfortunately, influenza vaccination rates declined by 6% in 2017 to 2018 to only 37% in those 18 years and older.
Source: Mayo Clinic Proceedings - Category: Internal Medicine Authors: Tags: Editorial Source Type: research