Identifying and Overcoming Immunization Barriers in this High-risk Population

Americans with diabetes may have impaired immune function that can lead to morbidity and mortality from influenza infection. Despite longstanding recommendations, more than 10 million Americans with diabetes go unprotected against influenza each year.

The National Foundation for Infectious Diseases (NFID) has launched an awareness initiative to address alarmingly low influenza vaccination rates in adults and children with diabetes, the fifth deadliest disease in the U.S. More than 15 leading medical and public health organizations support the goals of NFID’s program.

Numerous resources and professional tools are available to help highlight the severe disease impact of influenza in adults and children with diabetes and support a comprehensive approach toward improving annual vaccination of these at-risk individuals and their close contacts. NFID has also developed case studies of successful models and customizable tools for use within various practice settings that serve patients with diabetes.

Influenza is a serious and potentially deadly respiratory infection that spreads from person to person and infects up to 60 million Americans annually. The virus is responsible for more than 200,000 hospitalizations and an average of 36,000 deaths each year. Diabetes has a prevalence of about seven percent, resulting in nearly 21 million Americans with diabetes. One-third of these individuals are unaware of their condition.

Influenza vaccination is safe and effective in persons with diabetes aged 6 months and older. Many professionals come in contact with persons with diabetes, and all can play a role in increasing influenza vaccination rates.