Factors Associated With Influenza Vaccination During the COVID-19 Pandemic in Older Adults Residing in Brazil

Abstract

The current study aimed to assess influenza vaccination coverage and explore factors related to vaccine uptake in older adults in 2020 amid the coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic. A cross-sectional study using an online questionnaire was performed with 380 older adults (aged ≥60 years), living in Brazil, from May 26 to June 29, 2020. Data regarding sociodemographic, health, and social support variables were collected. Data were analyzed using Poisson regression with robust variance. Influenza vaccination coverage in the sample was 85.5% (95% confidence interval [81.6, 88.7]). Older adults with increased age had higher vaccination coverage, whereas those who were smokers, not wearing masks, and sometimes and never/almost never received professional support had lower vaccination rates. Data show that vaccine coverage for influenza in 2020 was below that recommended by Brazilian authorities. We reinforce the importance of information about the influenza vaccine, especially for younger older adults, smokers, and those who do not wear masks. Reliable information from health care professionals and the media is essential for vaccination during a pandemic. [ Journal of Gerontological Nursing, 49 (5), 31–38.]