Uptake and correlates of influenza vaccine among older adults residing in rural regions of China: a cross-sectional study

Abstract

Abstract Objectives This study aimed to investigate the extent of influenza vaccine coverage and identify the factors influencing vaccine uptake among older adults in rural regions of China. Design A cross-sectional study utilizing convenience sampling was conducted. Setting Two rural sites in Guangdong Province. Participants Individuals needed to meet specific inclusion criteria: (1) attainment of 60 years of age or older; (2) originating from rural households; (3) demonstrating a voluntary desire to partake in the survey, either through written or verbal informed consent. Outcome measure The rate of influenza vaccination in the past year. Results A total of 423 participants were ultimately included in this study, with the majority falling within the age range of 60 to 75 years (81.3%). Only one-third of the participants had received an influenza vaccine in the past year (30.0%, 127 out of 423). Notably, more than half of the older adults exhibited no hesitancy towards influenza vaccination (54.9%, 232 out of 423). The multivariable analysis revealed that rural elderly individuals with a robust understanding of influenza vaccines and a positive attitude towards them (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] = 2.60, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.41–4.81), along with a high level of trust in vaccination service providers (aOR = 2.58, 95% CI: 1.01–6.63), were positively associated with receiving influenza vaccination in the past year. Conclusion This study reveals a low rate of influenza vaccine uptake among older adults residing in rural areas of China. Given the limited adoption of influenza vaccination and the significant threat it poses, there is an urgent imperative to devise precise interventions aimed at enhancing the effectiveness of influenza vaccination programs.