African American Elders’ Perceptions of the Influenza Vaccine in Durham, North Carolina

Abstract

Objective: To qualitatively explore community perceptions among elderly African Americans about what makes it easy or difficult to get vaccinated for influenza.

Sample: A total of 28 elderly (age 65 years or older) African Americans living in Durham County, North Carolina, participated in this study.

Data Collection Methods: In-person, open-ended interviews were conducted to perform a content analysis on factors influencing influenza vaccination use, or lack thereof, in an elderly African American population. Interviews were conducted in participants’ homes and at senior centers in Durham County, North Carolina. Interviews were transcribed and analyzed to identify themes.

Principal Findings: Ten facilitators to encourage obtaining vaccinations were identified, including reminders from a doctor to get the influenza vaccination and the perception that the vaccination prevents influenza. Eight barriers were identified, including community perceptions to not get vaccinated and the fear of getting the “flu” from the vaccination itself.

Conclusion/Relevance: The study identified community perceptions of what makes it easy or difficult for elderly African Americans to get vaccinated for influenza. The findings will be useful to design and implement programs targeted to improving vaccination rates in health clinics or private physician’s offices since the elderly are more likely to receive influenza vaccinations in primary care settings.