Building vaccine confidence through awareness campaign in Illinois

Vaccinations are vital for older adults due to age-related immune system decline, which increases susceptibility to infections like influenza, pneumonia, and shingles.¹ For those with chronic conditions like diabetes or heart disease, vaccination is especially crucial. However, varying vaccination rates nationwide leave some communities vulnerable to preventable disease outbreaks. Committed to helping people live healthier lives, UnitedHealthcare is collaborating with the Illinois Public Health Association (IPHA) to implement a statewide immunization outreach and awareness campaign to address the significant gaps in current vaccination coverage rates and increase vaccine equity and confidence in the state.

Immunize Illinois seniors

The $50K investment from UnitedHealthcare will directly support IPHA's "Immunize Illinois Seniors" project, a comprehensive, statewide immunization outreach and awareness campaign. This initiative aims to enhance trust in vaccinations among seniors through a multifaceted approach, including print, online and text-based communications.

The project's one-year goals include:

• Expanding knowledge of, and access to, CDC-recommended vaccinations (influenza, RSV, pneumonia, COVID-19, and shingles) for thousands of older adults in Illinois
• Increasing vaccination rates among seniors for the full panel of CDC-recommended vaccines
• Enhancing trust in immunizations through sustained public awareness efforts
• Deploying a digital immunization resource portal for Illinois seniors, enabling them to locate vaccination sites, schedule appointments and receive regular updates on immunization news

The "Immunize Illinois Seniors" project is supported by research which suggests that confidence in vaccines leads to higher vaccination rates, fewer illnesses, hospitalizations and deaths.² Conversely, low vaccine confidence, exacerbated by misinformation during outbreaks like COVID-19, can significantly hinder vaccine uptake.³ By fostering high vaccine confidence, the project aims to mitigate these barriers and improve health outcomes.

UnitedHealthcare remains committed to enhancing senior health in Illinois by increasing vaccination rates and confidence in vaccines. This investment in IPHA underscores the importance of community-driven health initiatives and the role of public health advocacy in safeguarding the well-being of older adults.

Illinois Public Health Association

Established in 1940, the IPHA is the oldest and largest public health organization in the state. As a prominent affiliate of the American Public Health Association, IPHA is recognized for its leadership in public health advocacy, education and programming. The association collaborates closely with Illinois communities to promote the safety and efficacy of vaccinations across all age groups, including seniors.