OBJECTIVE:

to describe the prevalence of individuals vaccinated against influenza and associated factors with vaccination among elderly; identify reasons for noncompliance and adverse events.

METHODS:

this was a cross-sectional study, conducted in the urban area of Pelotas-RS, Brazil, in 2014.

RESULTS:

out of 1,451 elderly, 71% got vaccinated; the highest prevalences were observed in the elderly with better economic status (PR=1.2 - 95%CI 1.1;1.4), those who were not employed (PR=1.2 - 95%CI 1.1;1.3), those who were physically active (PR=1.1 - 95%CI 1.0;1.2), former smokers (PR=1.3 - 95%CI 1.1;1.5), those who were assisted by a health professional the previous year (PR=1.2 - 95%CI 1.1;1.4) and those who reported two or more health problems (PR=1.2 - 95%CI 1.1;1.4); the main reason for noncompliance (n=414) was 'did not want/do not like' (45%); the most frequently reported adverse events were malaise (49/83) and muscle ache (30/83).

CONCLUSION:

vaccination coverage was not universal; educational approaches are needed to clarify controversy on the efficacy, adverse events and benefits of vaccination.

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