CDC Estimates Personnel Vaccination Rates for 2012-2013 Flu Season

​Approximately 58% of healthcare personnel who work in long-term care facilities received an influenza vaccination for the 2012-2013 flu season, states an article published in the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s (CDC) September 27, 2013, Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report. Long-term care facilities had a 64% vaccination rate during the 2010-2011 season; the rate decreased to 52% during the 2011-2012 season. The vaccination rate among those who work in hospitals was much higher (83%). The article summarizes the results of an opt-in Internet panel survey that CDC conducted in April 2013, which included 1,944 self-selected healthcare personnel. According to the results, 72% of all healthcare personnel reported having had an influenza vaccination for the 2012-2013 season, an increase from 67% in the 2011-2012 season and 64% in the 2010-2011 season. By occupation type, vaccination coverage was 92% among physicians, 89% among pharmacists, 89% among nurse practitioners/physician assistants, 85% among nurses, 69% among other clinical personnel, and 65% among nonclinical personnel.