Managed care considerations and economic implications of vaccination practices

Influenza is an acute viral respiratory disease caused by the influenza A and B viruses. The epidemiologic characteristics of influenza are in constant flux as the viruses mutate frequently, and the subsequent spread of illness depends on the affected population's susceptibility to the new antigens. These viral mutations necessitate frequent updates to the annual seasonal influenza vaccine. Those most at risk for serious complications of influenza are young children and elderly persons. Although influenza vaccination rates are highest among adults 65 years or older, vaccine effectiveness in this age group is often less than among younger persons. Thus, vigilance in efforts to increase vaccine uptake is warranted through a concerted effort across the entire healthcare and public health spectrum of providers and agencies, including clinicians, health systems, government, and community agencies. Managed care organizations are an excellent case study for implementing systemwide efforts to prevent influenza disease and its consequences.