Influenza vaccination in Austria from 1982 to 2011: A country resistant to influenza prevention and control

Background: Austria's position on influenza vaccination is unique. Generally it is recommended for everyone, and specifically for those over the age of 50 years and all children between 6 months and 5 years. However, the vaccination rate among the general public is one of the lowest in the world (<10%). Our objective was to provide baseline information to allow a better understanding of the low vaccination rate. Methods: This paper presents data on influenza vaccine use in Austria during a period of almost 30 years, from 1982 to 2011. Data presented in this study were obtained from three sources. Results: Between 1982 and 1992, Austria showed little change in its low proportion of vaccinations (from 20 to 23 doses/1000); from 1992 to 1995, the proportion increased to 52 doses/1000, retaining its status as one of the low-use countries. By 2003, the proportion had increased to 127 doses/1000, but Austria remained one of the three lowest-use Western European countries. Between 2007 and 2011/2012, a steady decrease to 81 doses/1000 was observed. Conclusion: The Austrian population, and parts of the medical system, have shown distinct ignorance regarding the prevention and control of influenza over past decades. Possible reasons for this development are discussed. (C) 2013 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.