Factors associated with influenza vaccine uptake in older adults living in the community in Singapore

Abstract

In Singapore, influenza vaccination is recommended for persons at higher risk of complications of seasonal influenza, including those with chronic medical conditions and the elderly (individuals aged ≥65 years). We investigated the factors associated with influenza vaccine uptake based on a nationally representative sample of community-dwelling adults aged ≥50 years. The data for this study were obtained from the National Health Surveillance Survey (NHSS) 2013. The association between influenza vaccine uptake and socio-demographic and health-related variables was analysed using univariable and multivariable logistic regression models. Of 3700 respondents aged ≥50 years in the NHSS, 15.2% had received seasonal influenza vaccination in the past year. Older age, single marital status and economic inactivity were the socio-demographic variables independently associated with vaccine uptake. Health-related factors which were predictive of influenza vaccine uptake were sufficient total physical activity, better self-rated health, having at least one medical condition at risk of influenza complications and a regular family doctor/general practitioner. Influenza vaccine uptake in community-dwelling older adults was low. Our findings are of relevance in the formulation of public health policies and targeted health promotion strategies to increase vaccine uptake in this population group.