For immediate release: February 7, 2023 (23-013)
Contact: DOH Communications
First time state-provided data used to surveil flu vaccinations
OLYMPIA – Washington State Department of Health’s (DOH) new Influenza (Flu) Vaccination Dashboard makes it easier to track flu vaccination rates across the state. This is the first time that state-provided data have been used to surveil flu vaccinations. The dashboard displays the number of flu vaccines administered in Washington facilities, as well as the percentage of Washingtonians who have received at least one flu vaccine. Dashboard users can also make vaccination rate comparisons between the current and previous flu seasons. The dashboard will be updated weekly between Sept. 1 and April 30.
Only data reported to the Washington State Immunization Information System are included on the dashboard. Although most providers and major health care systems in Washington report vaccinations to this system, not all do. As a result, actual flu vaccination coverage and doses administered may be higher than what is displayed on the dashboard.
Flu vaccination coverage has been trending lower over the last three years. Getting a flu vaccine is one of the best ways to prevent flu and flu-related complications, in addition to reducing disease transmission in the community. Everyone six months and older who is eligible to receive a flu vaccine should do so. The vaccine is widely available in provider offices, community clinics, and pharmacies. Flu vaccines can be administered at the same time as COVID-19 vaccines. Please visit vaccines.gov to find a flu vaccine provider closest to you.
The DOH website is your source for a healthy dose of information. Find us on Facebook and follow us on Twitter. Sign up for the DOH blog, Public Health Connection.
###