Evaluation of Influenza Vaccine Coverage Levels of People 65 Years and Older by Lot Quality Technique: A Cross-Sectional Study

AIM: There is a lack of epidemiologic studies representing the community regarding vaccine uptake in older people. The aim of this study was to determine the frequency of seasonal influenza vaccination and influenza vaccine coverage and examine the relationship between sociodemographic and health characteristics and vaccination in older adults over 65 years of age. METHODS: The study is a cross-sectional epidemiological study representing the province of in all central districts of Ankara, and the sample consists of individuals over 65 years of age selected from each neighborhood (LOT) method. The data were collected between November 20, 2022 and Decemer 31, 2022 by means of a questionnaire form including sociodemographic and health-related characteristics created by the researchers. RESULTS: In 2022, 43.0% of elderly individuals received the influenza vaccine, and in 2021, 45.5% received it. Among the reasons for not getting the influenza vaccination, the first was a lack of information about vaccination (24.4%) and the second was the belief that vaccination would be useless (17.8%). In terms of the continuity of vaccination behavior of individuals, the vaccination rate in both years was 47.2%. According to the cut-off values used in Lot Quality Assessment Analyses determined for this study, there are 18 (24%) neighborhoods with influenza vaccination prevalence below 35%, and the number of elderly vaccinated in these neighborhoods is below six, which is determined as “unacceptable.” Only two neighborhoods have a vaccination prevalence above the national target of 70%. In 73.3% of the neighborhoods, the vaccination prevalence is between 35% and 69% and needs to be improved in terms of the national target. Being single, not visiting a doctor in the last year, hospitalization, and living more than 30 minutes away from the Family Health Center increased the risk of not being vaccinated. CONCLUSION: Health policies aimed at creating vaccine awareness in society should be shaped by taking into account factors such as education, gender, marital status, chronic disease, and geographical access. In addition, methods that will facilitate individuals’ access to health services and enable them to obtain information about vaccines should be developed, and social awareness should be increased. CLINICALTRIALS.GOV ID: NCT05661890.