Factors affecting immunization status of college students in New York City (NYC)

Although immunization is an important public health issue, there have been few studies conducted and minimal information gathered concerning the immunization status of NYC college students. In response to this void, the NYC Department of Health's Bureau of Immunization designed and implemented a study to determine the accessibility of immunization information and service.

Three hundred and twenty-one college students were asked to complete an immunization survey designed by the researchers in the immunization clinics of New York City.

Significant correlations were found between the accessibility of immunization information and immigration status, years of residence in the U.S.A., primary language, as well as school credit completed. Results also indicated that the accessibility of immunization service correlates significantly with ethnicity, immigration status, primary language, years of residence in the U.S.A., accessibility of immunization information, insurance status, employment status, and personal and family income.

The information gathered from this study is useful for public health administration, policy analysis, and program planning.