Current status of influenza vaccination and factors affecting vaccination rates among older men and women

Objectives: This study aimed to investigate influenza vaccination status and factors influencing vaccination among individuals aged 65 and over. Methods: Raw data from the 2021 Community Health Survey conducted by the Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency were used as secondary data. The analysis focused on 74,414 adults aged 65 years and older. Data analysis involved frequency examination, Chi-square test, and multiple logistic regression analysis using the SPSS/WIN 27.0 program. Results: Several factors affected influenza vaccination rates among older men and women, including age, education level, being in receipt of basic livelihood, hypertension, diabetes, subjective health status, smoking, general health check-ups, walking, breakfast consumption, and hand-washing practices after going out. Those who rated their subjective health status as good exhibited lower vaccination rates, whereas those diagnosed with a chronic disease or adhering healthier lifestyles showed higher vaccination rate. Conclusion: To improve influenza vaccination rates among older adults, it is imperative to implement education and awareness campaigns. Tailored approaches are needed based on barriers and reinforcing factors.