Motivational and programmatic materials should be mailed early in the summer to allow ample time for coordination. To anticipate resource needs, public health agencies should estimate the size of the target population well in advance. Program organizers should collaborate with volunteer organizations whose strong endorsements can influence both medical professionals and the public. This measure is especially important for reaching chronically ill persons under age 65, a large percentage of whom may be accessible only through private providers. After the campaign, the effectiveness of resource usage and vaccine coverage among specific risk groups should be evaluated.
Influenza vaccination is the single most important measure in preventing influenza infection.
However, a household survey revealed that the vaccine coverage rate achieved outside chronic-care facilities was much lower than desired. This problem should be addressed by developing systematic approaches to influenza vaccination in physician's offices, clinics, and hospitals. Since there is considerable overlap between the groups targeted to receive influenza vaccine and pneumococcal polysaccharide vaccine, public health authorities should consider offering both vaccines during an influenza campaign. Because of cost considerations, Allegheny County was forced to restrict pneumococcal vaccination to high-risk patients attending health department clinics. The cost of pneumococcal vaccine is reimbursable for eligible beneficiaries through Medicare, Part B. References Immunization Practices Advisory Committee.