Mobile Flu Fighter! Development and Pilot Implementation of a Mobile Vaccination Program to Reduce Pediatric Influenza Vaccination Disparities.

Abstract

Severe pediatric influenza outcomes disproportionately affect racial minority groups, yet flu vaccination rates are often lower in these populations. Community Engagement Studios were conducted among parents/caregivers who refused flu vaccination for their children to discuss vaccination decision-making. A pilot program, Mobile Flu Fighter!, was created for pediatric patients in Nashville, Tennessee, and 4 events were conducted during the 2021 to 2022 flu season. Events provided free flu vaccines to all eligible children (aged 6 months to <18 years old), recorded vaccinations in electronic medical records and the state vaccine registry, and incorporated community partners. Events resulted in 49 pediatric flu vaccinations. Patient flu vaccination rates were compared with previous seasons, which resulted in an overall decrease in 2.9% to 3.5%. The decrease may be influenced by factors like COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy, vaccine infodemics, and not employing family-centered approaches. More work is necessary to reduce pediatric vaccination disparities.