title: [Vaccination against influenza in elderly persons: some current presumptions].
abstract: A telephone survey in March 1994 revealed that only 70% of 185 persons surveyed aged 65 and over were offered influenza vaccine during the last flu shot campaign; the sample was taken among non-institution residents of the Quebec City area who were likely to have regular health professional contact. Misinformation concerning influenza infection and vaccine remains widespread: 30% of the people surveyed still believe that the vaccine can transmit the virus and 21% consider the vaccine ineffective. Incorrect beliefs are significantly more prevalent among the unvaccinated population: 12% stated that they were allergic to the vaccine; in fact, true allergies are rare. Health professionals should recognize that elderly people, though in regular contact with the health care system, may not have been offered the influenza vaccine and may have inadequate information or incorrect beliefs regarding influenza and its preventability.
authors.affiliation: Centre de santé publique de Québec.
authors.forename: G
authors.initials: G
authors.lastname: Roy
authors.forename: M
authors.initials: M
authors.lastname: Fradet
authors.forename: D
authors.initials: D
authors.lastname: Le Hénaff
mesh_terms: D000368:Aged / Q000523:psychology*; D000369:Aged, 80 and over; D002170:Canada; D005260:Female; D007722:Health Knowledge, Attitudes, Practice; D006801:Humans; D007252:Influenza Vaccines / Q000009:adverse effects; D008297:Male; D010342:Patient Acceptance of Health Care; D011795:Surveys and Questionnaires; D014504:Urban Health
chemical_list: D007252:Influenza Vaccines