Study Confirms Effectiveness of Influenza Vaccinations During Hospitalization

Recommendations for Influenza Vaccination

A retrospective study published by the Mayo Clinic highlights the effectiveness of influenza vaccinations for hospitalized patients. The influenza vaccine is advised for everyone over six months of age. Currently, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends administering the influenza vaccine to hospitalized patients before their discharge. While exceptions may exist, they must be supported by adequate evidence.

Research Findings on Vaccination Impact

A recent study conducted by the Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research provides compelling evidence that influenza vaccinations for hospitalized patients can enhance healthcare service utilization, improve the detection rate of fevers, and facilitate the evaluation of infections post-discharge. This study builds upon earlier research, which indicated that vaccinated patients did not face a higher risk compared to their unvaccinated counterparts. This finding encouraged researchers to focus on a more specialized group of hospitalized patients to alleviate concerns regarding the administration of the influenza vaccine during hospital stays.

Study Overview and Methodology

The study involved participants from the Kaiser Permanente Southern California health care system, which integrates comprehensive health records. This system allows for easy access to individual vaccination schedules, laboratory results, and relevant clinical data. Participants ranged in age from six months to older individuals, with eligibility for the influenza vaccine being a key recruitment criterion. Patients were assessed approximately seven days after discharge to evaluate the outcomes. Laboratory studies were also performed to check for any infections or side effects associated with the vaccine.

Conclusions on Vaccine Safety

The researchers concluded that influenza vaccines are safe for administration during hospitalization. They emphasized that every interaction with a healthcare professional presents an opportunity to vaccinate.

Author Information

Written by Dr. Apollina Sharma, MBBS, GradDip EXMD

Reference

Tartof, Sara Y., et al. “Safety of Influenza Vaccination Administered During Hospitalization.” Mayo Clinic Proceedings. Elsevier, 2019.