Article:

As the updated 2023-2024 COVID-19 vaccine continues to be rolled out, vaccination coverage remains low, according to recent data. As of December 2, 2023, only 7.7% of the population aged 6 months-17 years reported receiving this vaccine. The rates were slightly higher among adults, with 17.2% of those aged 18 years and older and 36% of adults aged 65 years and older reporting vaccination against COVID-19.

Similarly, vaccination coverage for the respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) vaccine among U.S. adults aged 60 years and older was reported at 15.9% as of December 2, 2023. These low vaccination rates have raised concerns about the potential risks and implications for public health.

The reasons for the low uptake of influenza, COVID-19, and RSV vaccines were identified based on survey results from a nationally representative sample of U.S. adults. Key factors contributing to the low vaccination rates included a lack of provider recommendation, concerns about unknown or serious side effects, experiencing mild side effects, and a lack of time or forgetfulness to get vaccinated.

In response to these troubling statistics, healthcare providers are being urged to administer influenza, COVID-19, and RSV immunizations to their patients, particularly those at an increased risk of severe disease. Vaccinations can help prevent hospitalization and death associated with these respiratory diseases and are especially crucial for vulnerable populations such as infants, older adults, pregnant individuals, and those with underlying medical conditions.

Notably, COVID-19 vaccination not only reduces the risk of severe illness but also lowers the chances of multisystem inflammatory syndrome in children (MIS-C) and post-COVID conditions. Vaccination of pregnant individuals against influenza and COVID-19 is vital as it protects both the patient and their infants, who are too young to be vaccinated. Additionally, healthcare providers are encouraged to recommend antiviral medications to eligible patients, especially those at higher risk of developing severe disease.

To tackle the low vaccination rates, healthcare providers are advised to utilize all available tools to increase immunization coverage. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has developed communication tools, including a conversation guide and immunization call-back message template, to support providers in their efforts to promote immunizations. Additional resources can be found in the CDC's Healthcare Provider Toolkit for Preparing Patients for the Fall and Winter Virus Season.

Patients who express concerns or hesitations about vaccination are advised to engage in conversations with their healthcare providers. Providers are encouraged to make strong recommendations and share accurate and up-to-date information about the benefits and safety of vaccines. Motivational interviewing techniques may also be employed to address patients' uncertainties and highlight the importance of fall and winter respiratory vaccines.

It is crucial for the public to engage in discussions with their healthcare providers regarding recommended immunizations for themselves, their households, and their family members. Additionally, individuals should be aware of everyday preventive actions, such as proper hand hygiene, mask-wearing, and improving ventilation in home and work environments.

Health departments are also playing a vital role in increasing vaccination rates. They are working alongside providers to share CDC's conversation guide and healthcare provider toolkit, as well as publicly sharing local vaccination coverage data. Furthermore, health departments are encouraged to report any cases of multisystem inflammatory syndrome in children (MIS-C) to their respective jurisdictional health departments.

In conclusion, the low vaccination rates for COVID-19, influenza, and RSV vaccines highlight the importance of addressing concerns and increasing immunization coverage. Healthcare providers, alongside health departments, must take proactive measures to educate and encourage patients to receive vaccines, safeguarding the population from severe respiratory diseases.