Influenza Immunization Rate for Population 65 and Older (Mississippi-wide):
African American: 43%    Caucasian: 69%

Pneumococcal Immunization Rate for Population 65 and Older (Mississippi-wide):
African American: 27%    Caucasian: 61%

*Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System data, 1999 and 2001 combined average

 Bolivar, Coahoma, Grenada, Hinds, Holmes, Humphreys, Issaquena, LeFlore, Tunica, Panola, Quitman, Sharkey, Sunflower, Tallahatchie, Tate, Yalobusha, Yazoo, Warren, Washington.

The project aims to expand accessibility of immunizations and to promote the effectiveness of immunizations to the elderly population through:

• Provider education and assessment of immunization rates.
• Regional planning meetings involving all stakeholders in targeted intervention
  areas.
• Communication needs assessment and provider surveys to determine perceptions
  of the target populations and identification of immunization barriers.
• Production of influenza and pneumococcal educational materials and public service announcements.
• Increased hiring of nurses to administer vaccinations.
• Promotional events, including many during National Adult Immunization Awareness Week.

Department of Health and Human Services
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention