Last Updated: January 2015

Author: Immunization Program, Vermont Department of Health

In 2013, 73% of adult Vermonters, age 65 and older reported receipt a pneumococcal vaccination at some point in their lifetime.

This indicator is part of Healthy Vermonters 2020 (the State Health Assessment) that documents the health status of Vermonters at the start of the decade and the population health indicators and goals that will guide the work of public health through 2020. Click here for more information.

Primary care providers, media

A strong provider recommendation, patient awareness of the need for the vaccine and no out of pocket costs.In addition, the availability of immunizations at pharmacies has increased access for some of the age 65 and older population.

In 2014, a recommendation for second pneumococcal vaccine for adults 65 years and older was made by CDC. In order to support full implementation of this new recommendation it is essential to educate providers and the public regarding the recommendations and issues with insurance (Medicare) coverage.

Data is updated as it becomes available and timing may vary by data source. For more information about this indicator, click here.

Due to BRFSS weighting methodology changes beginning in 2011, comparisons between data collected in 2011 and later and that from 2010 and earlier should be made with caution. Differences between data from 2011 forward and earlier years may be due to methodological changes, rather than changes in opinion or behavior.