Pneumonia and influenza are the fifth leading cause of death in older adults in the United States and causes substantial morbidity and mortality among Medicare patients. There are over 40,000 cases of invasive pneumococcal disease in the U.S. and approximately one-third of these cases occur in people 65 and older. There are over 200,000 hospitalizations from influenza on average every year. An average of 36,000 Americans die annually due to influenza and its complications – most are people 65 years of age and over.

Despite the fact that influenza and pneumococcal vaccines are effective, safe and Medicare Part B covered benefits, immunization rates remain low. In 2002, almost 66 percent and 56 percent of people ages 65 and older reported receiving influenza and pneumococcal vaccinations, respectively. CIMRO of Nebraska works with hospitals, nursing homes, homecare agencies, physician offices and community organizations to increase immunization rates for Medicare beneficiaries, healthcare workers and other high-risk individuals.

For quality improvement resources and strategies, please visit the Immunization Documents and Links section.