Influenza vaccination among the elderly in Italy

This article surveys the attitudes and perceptions of a random sample of th e elderly population in three regions of Italy on the use and efficacy of i nfluenza vaccine. The data were collected by direct interviews using a stan dard questionnaire. The results show that vaccination coverage against infl uenza is inadequate (26-48.6%). The major reasons for nonvaccination were l ack of faith in the vaccine and disbelief that influenza is a dangerous ill ness. These data emphasize the need for a systematic education programme ta rgeted at the elderly and the provision of influenza vaccination, with the increased cooperation of general practitioners.