Decline in influenza-associated mortality among Dutch elderly following the introduction of a nationwide vaccination program.
With a retrospective nationwide cohort study in the Netherlands over 1992-2003, using mortality and viral surveillance data, the aim was to assess by means of rate difference methods the influenza-associated mortality in the elderly before and after the introduction of a nationwide influenza vaccination program in 1996 (vaccination coverage raised from below 50 to 80%). The average annual influenza-associated mortality declined in the years before and after the introduction from 131 to 105 per 100,000 persons (relative risk 0.80). The decline was largest in the age group 65-69 years (relative risk 0.54) and less in those aged 75 years and older. Validation by Serfling-type regression analysis revealed similar results. In conclusion, routine influenza vaccination among Dutch elderly was associated with a significant decrease in influenza-associated mortality, notably in those aged 65-69 years.
Jansen
Angelique G S C
AG
Julius Center for Health Sciences and Primary Care, University Medical Center Utrecht, The Netherlands.
Sanders
Elisabeth A M
EA
Nichol
Kristin L
KL
van Loon
Anton M
AM
Hoes
Arno W
AW
Hak
Eelko
E
D017677:Age Distribution; D000368:Aged; D000369:Aged, 80 and over; D006801:Humans; D017589:Immunization Programs; D053122:Influenza A Virus, H3N2 Subtype; D007252:Influenza Vaccines / Q000008:administration & dosage*; D007251:Influenza, Human / Q000453:epidemiology / Q000401:mortality* / Q000517:prevention & control* / Q000821:virology; D009313:National Health Programs; D009426:Netherlands / Q000453:epidemiology; D011159:Population Surveillance / Q000379:methods; D015397:Program Evaluation; D012621:Seasons
D007252:Influenza Vaccines