Influenza vaccination in adults with a long-term condition.

Abstract

Influenza is an important cause of morbidity and mortality, particularly in certain high-risk groups and the elderly. However, uptake rates of influenza vaccination by people in high-risk groups have been low. The aim of this study was to explore knowledge and views about the influenza vaccination in adults under 65 years with a long-term condition, in order to identify influences on people's decisions to be immunised and thereby improve uptake rates of the vaccination. Recommendation from a healthcare professional and the perception of being in a high-risk group were major factors in deciding to accept the influenza vaccination. The risk of side effects appeared to play a far smaller part in the decision-making process among the individuals in this study group than in the older age groups studied previously by other researchers.