Key Takeaways:
– Less than 18% of US adults have received a COVID-19 vaccine during the 2024-25 respiratory disease season.
– The rate for influenza vaccination is only slightly higher, at 34.7%.
– Puerto Rico records the lowest rates for both influenza and COVID-19 vaccinations.
– Maryland and Vermont have the highest influenza and COVID-19 vaccination rates, respectively.
– Uninsured individuals are less likely to have received or plan to receive the vaccines.
– Estimates suggest the flu results in significant hospitalizations and deaths annually.
The Vaccine Scenario
According to a recent report by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), only 17.9 percent of US adults have been vaccinated against the COVID-19 virus amid the 2024-25 respiratory disease season. Even the influenza vaccination rate stands at a relatively low 34.7 percent, leading to concerns about the country’s vulnerability to these diseases.
The Willingness to Get Vaccinated
The report also surveyed Americans’ willingness to get vaccinated. It revealed that 35 percent of US adults are open to receiving an influenza vaccine, with 41 percent ready for a COVID-19 jab. Interestingly, 40 percent showed receptiveness to an RSV vaccine, suggesting a comparable willingness across disease categories.
Geographical Variation in Vaccination Coverage
A notable takeaway from the CDC report is the varying vaccination rates across the US and its territories. Puerto Rico stood out, unfortunately, for the wrong reasons, recording the lowest rates for both influenza (17 percent) and COVID-19 jabs (5.2 percent).
The gap narrows for the states with the highest rate of vaccination. Maryland leads for influenza coverage at 50.5 percent, while Vermont tops the charts for COVID-19 with a vaccination rate of 33.9 percent.
Insurance Coverage Affects Vaccination Status
When it comes to individual demographics, those lacking insurance stand to lose. Uninsured people reported lower vaccination rates for influenza and COVID19 compared to the general population. This group also showed less likelihood of intending to get vaccinated this season.
The Public Outlook on Vaccination
On the heels of this report, a Pew Research Center survey showed that 60 percent of Americans are ‘probably not’ going to get an updated vaccine this year. Viewpoints were more divided over COVID-19 boosters, with just under a quarter of respondents likely to get the shot and 15 percent confirming they had already received it.
Addressing the Unvaccinated Population
The CDC’s urgent recommendation is for everyone aged six months and older to receive an updated COVID-19 vaccine. This necessity cannot be overstated, considering the flu alone accounts for 100,000 to 710,000 annual hospitalizations and 49,000 to 51,000 deaths. Older adults and those never vaccinated before are particularly urged to take the jab, given their heightened risk from these infections.
Final Take
While the report paints a sobering picture of present vaccine coverage in the U.S, it underlines the importance and urgency to increase vaccination rates. Addressing disparities, improving accessibility, and spreading awareness can play a crucial role in ensuring enhanced coverage and thereby safeguarding the health of the nation.