Comprehensive delivery of adult vaccination–Minnesota, 1986-1992

Despite the availability of safe and effective vaccines, many adults still suffer from vaccine-preventable diseases. For example, each year an estimated 40,000-60,000 adults die as a result of pneumococcal infection and influenza. In addition, from 1985 through 1992, 433 (92.7%) of 467 cases of tetanus occurred among adults (CDC, unpublished data, 1993). Although up to 90% of influenza-related deaths occur among persons aged > or = 65 years, the 1991 National Health Interview Survey indicated that, during the preceding year, only 41% and 20% of persons aged > or = 65 years reported receiving influenza vaccine and pneumococcal vaccine, respectively (CDC, unpublished data, 1991). This report describes the efforts of the Hennepin County (Minneapolis) Community Health Department (HCCHD) (1990 population: 1.1 million) to provide comprehensive vaccination services to persons aged > or = 62 years.