The Descriptive Epidemiology of Influenza Vaccination and Adverse Events of Influenza Vaccination in Alberta for the 2010-2011 Vaccination Season

Abstract

Objective: The objective of this study was to estimate influenza vaccination coverage and describe the occurrence of adverse events related to influenza vaccination in Alberta by attributes of age, sex, geographical indicators (urban or rural), immigrants versus non-immigrants, and provider type for the 2010-2011 vaccination season. Methods: The study used aggregate data from the Alberta’s publicly funded immunization system. Denominators for influenza vaccination coverage were obtained from the health care insurance registry. Descriptive analysis included proportions to describe patterns in rates and events by attributes. Results: Variation in influenza vaccination coverage and adverse events was observed by age, sex, place of residence and in relation to being immigrant and non-immigrant. Among young children and immigrants, there were missing values of adverse events. Conclusions Influenza vaccination coverage rates for the overall population, for all age groups, and for rural and immigrant population are low. Reporting of adverse events is incomplete.