Influenza Season Triggers Pneumococcal Vaccination

Abstract

Four-fifths of pneumococcal vaccine was administered in the fall and winter, and approximately half was given together with influenza vaccine. When influenza vaccine was in limited supply, physicians continued to vaccinate with pneumococcal vaccine alone. These findings suggest that the imminent influenza season provides the trigger for physicians to prescribe pneumococcal vaccine. Physicians should be reminded that pneumococcal vaccine can be administered any time of year.

Pneumococcal vaccination of the elderly during visits to acute care providers: Who are vaccinated?

“…82 Goebel and Mufson found that 82% of pneumococcal vaccine was administered in the fall and winter and 45% of PPV recipients received it together with the influenza vaccine. 83 We awareness among patients and providers. 84,85,86 Terrell-Perica demonstrated the effectiveness of a pneumococcal patient reminder letter.…”