(RxWiki News) Despite all the education about the flu vaccine, people in some groups still aren't getting the shot.
That's according to a newly released Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) report about who received the flu vaccine in the United States during the 2015-16 season. This report highlighted coverage by age group, sex and race.
The data revealed that flu vaccine coverage among children stayed the same between the last two flu seasons. But overall coverage decreased as age increased when looking at children ages 6 months through 17 years.
Coverage among adults decreased by 1.9 percent between the most recent flu season and the season before that, according to the CDC report. And vaccine coverage continued to vary widely between states.
The CDC noted that this information can help estimate who may be receiving a flu vaccine this season and indicate which groups need more attention.
Influenza (flu) is caused by flu viruses. The illness can be mild to severe. If it is severe, hospitalization or death can occur. That's why the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices says that those who are 6 months old or older should be vaccinated against the flu if they can safely receive the vaccine.
Speak with your doctor about the flu vaccine and how to keep your family safe this flu season.
