Influenza Vaccination in Massachusetts Jails: A Mixed-Methods Analysis

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Epidemiology
• Infectious Disease Control

Background:

• Influenza poses a significant annual health burden, causing widespread illness and mortality.
• Individuals in US prisons and jails face disproportionately higher risks of severe influenza complications.
• Existing influenza vaccines are underutilized in correctional facilities.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess institutional influenza vaccine policies and practices in Massachusetts county jails.
• To estimate influenza vaccination rates within these facilities from 2013 to 2020.
• To identify factors influencing vaccination coverage in the incarcerated population.

Main Methods:

• Surveys administered to health services administrators in 14 Massachusetts county jails in April 2020.
• Analysis of influenza vaccine order data from the Massachusetts Department of Public Health (2013-2020).
• Statistical analysis including Kruskal-Wallis tests and linear regression modeling.

Main Results:

• Influenza vaccination rates in Massachusetts jails varied significantly, from 1.9% to 11.8%.
• No statistically significant differences in vaccination rates were observed across the study years (2013-2020).
• Observed variations in vaccine ordering and delivery practices among jails, despite administrator confidence in existing policies.

Conclusions:

• Low influenza vaccination rates in Massachusetts jails represent a critical public health concern.
• Variability in vaccine delivery highlights the need for standardized and improved practices within correctional facilities.
• Addressing this healthcare gap is crucial, particularly in light of the COVID-19 pandemic, requiring collaborative efforts for effective and equitable vaccination strategies.