New Zealanders' self-reported uptake and attitudes towards the influenza vaccine in 2012

This study sought to assess New Zealanders' uptake of the influenza vaccine in 2012, identify the demographic characteristics of people least likely to take up the vaccine, and identify the main reasons why some did not get the vaccine.

We analysed responses to questions in the 2012 Health and Lifestyles Survey (HLS) about the influenza vaccine. The 2012 HLS was an in-home survey with a nationally representative sample of 2672 New Zealanders aged 15 years and over.

Two-thirds of New Zealanders said they did not receive the influenza vaccine in 2012. Younger adults and those who thought they were not eligible to get the vaccine for free were least likely to have received it. The most common reason for not receiving the vaccine was a low perceived susceptibility to influenza. Other common reasons were related to dislike or distrust of the vaccine.

This study provides information that could be used by health professionals, health promoters, and government agencies to improve the targeting and effectiveness of communication messages related to the influenza vaccine. Such communications are important because they can help encourage those New Zealanders who would benefit most from receiving the vaccine to take it up.