Influenza and pneumococcal immunization rates among a high-risk population.

BACKGROUND: Influenza and pneumococcal infections are the most vaccine-preventable infectious diseases among the elderly population. Elderly patients (65 years and older) with chronic diseases derive substantial benefit from having current immunization status due to their high risk for respiratory diseases. However, immunization levels for influenza and pneumococcus remain suboptimal. This study sought to determine the immunization rates in a high-risk geriatric population. METHODS: Charts of consecutive patients seen in a geriatric clinic from November 1999 to February 2000 were obtained. Medical records were reviewed to assess their influenza and pneumococcal immunization status. RESULTS: Of 200 patients who qualified for the study, all had at least two indications for vaccination, yet only 34% were current with influenza immunization, and 26% were current with pneumococcus immunization. CONCLUSIONS: In a high-risk elderly population, influenza and pneumococcal immunization rates were low. Patients who received pneumococcus vaccination were more likely to receive influenza immunization as well.