[Influenza vaccination of the elderly in the municipality of Copenhagen].

In October/November 1996 all people living in the city of Copenhagen aged 70 and above were invited to receive an influenza vaccination. Of a total of 62,600 people, 35,423 were vaccinated which is a participation rate of 56%. The participation rate increased with increasing age and in the older age groups the participation rate was 80%. The vaccinations were performed by nurses and most of the participants were vaccinated in special clinics (74.9%). Immobile participants were vaccinated either in their own homes (14.3%), in nursing homes (9.2%), or in hospitals (1.6%). One single case of hospitalisation of a chronically ill patient was registered, because of a weak influenza. No other side effects were registered. The total cost of all vaccinations was 4 million dkr. which is 115 dkr. (approximately 10 Pounds sterling) for each vaccination.