Substandard Vaccinations Rates Reported in the U.S.

The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reported on December 22, 2023, the updated percentage of people who have received COVID-19, influenza, and/or Respiratory syncytial  virus (RSV) vaccines in 2023.

Influenza, the SARS-CoV-2 coronavirus, and RSV have been circulating during the fall through early spring for the past few years, causing respiratory illness, says the CDC.

Alaska recently reported particularly low vaccination rates for the three illnesses that typically send hundreds of Alaskans to the hospital yearly.

Dr. Joe McLaughlin, Alaska’s state epidemiologist, informed Anchorage Daily News fewer than 20% of Alaskans had gotten a flu shot, and just 13% of eligible Alaskans were up-to-date on their COVID-19 vaccinations.

“I’m always concerned about vaccination rates,” McLaughlin said, noting that Alaska often has one of the lower vaccination rates in the country for flu and other illnesses.

“This year, our coverage rates are below even what they have been in recent years.”

Regarding the new COVID-19 vaccines, the CDC reported that 7.6% (95% confidence interval: 6.7-8.4) of children and 18.5% (17.8-19.2) of adults have been vaccinated.

The percent of the population reporting receipt of a flu vaccine is about 43%

The percentage of adults 60+ reported receiving an RSV vaccine is 17% (15.9-18.1).

These respiratory vaccines remain available at most pharmacies in the U.S.

In late 2023, the CDC confirmed partnering with community-based organizations, healthcare providers, and other trusted messengers to build vaccine confidence and awareness. 

Since egg, cell, and nasal-based flu shots are available, consumers have ample choice to select which vaccine is best for them.