Insights

A recent survey by the National Foundation for Infectious Diseases revealed that a significant portion of Americans are hesitant to receive vaccinations for the flu and COVID-19 this season. Only 38% of U.S. adults indicated they would definitely get a flu shot, while just 26% planned to receive the updated COVID vaccine. This trend is concerning, especially given the high number of deaths attributed to these diseases in the previous year, with 25,000 fatalities from flu and 75,000 from COVID-19. The survey also highlighted low interest in other vaccines, with only 21% of eligible individuals considering the RSV vaccine and 24% the pneumococcal vaccine. Health experts, including CDC Director Dr. Mandy Cohen, emphasized the importance of vaccination in preventing serious illness and protecting vulnerable populations. The findings indicate a decline in vaccination interest compared to the previous season, where 45% of adults received the flu vaccine. Particularly alarming is the low vaccination rate among individuals with chronic health conditions, as only 46% were vaccinated last season. This demographic is at a higher risk for severe complications from respiratory infections. The survey suggests that personal experiences with illness may drive individuals to seek vaccination, as nearly 72% of those diagnosed with flu in the last two years expressed intent to get vaccinated. Experts attribute the reluctance to vaccine hesitancy, concerns about side effects, and distrust in vaccines. Building trust through evidence-based messaging and support from healthcare professionals is crucial for improving vaccination rates, especially in communities of color, as highlighted by Dr. Reed Tuckson of the Black Coalition Against COVID.