Access to Yellow Fever Vaccine in the U.S.
Author Information
Author(s): Thomas P. Monath, Judith A. Giesberg, Edward Garcia Fierros
Primary Institution: OraVax Inc. and Harvard School of Public Health
Hypothesis
Does restricted distribution limit access and coverage of the yellow fever vaccine in the United States?
Conclusion
The current system of designated yellow fever vaccinating centers in the U.S. limits access and vaccination coverage for travelers.
Supporting Evidence
- The U.S. has 800 to 1,000 yellow fever vaccinating centers, but many travelers seek advice from primary-care providers.
- 30% of travelers to developing countries received the yellow fever vaccine between 1980 and 1986.
- 5% to 6% of the U.S. population lives in rural areas with limited access to vaccinating centers.
Takeaway
Getting a yellow fever vaccine can be hard for travelers because they have to go to special centers, which are not always easy to reach.
Methodology
The study sampled 15 states to assess access to yellow fever vaccinating centers.
Potential Biases
Potential bias due to reliance on self-reported data from travelers.
Limitations
The study could not estimate differences in international travel patterns across the U.S.
Participant Demographics
The sample included a high proportion of the U.S. population, representing various geographies and demographics.
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