Today, the Office of the Governor of Rhode Island and the Rhode Island Department of Health (HEALTH) recognized groups who contributed to the state’s top-ranked H1N1 vaccination effort. Rhode Island had the highest overall H1N1 vaccination rate, 38.8%, in the country. In addition, Rhode Island led the country in vaccinating children and high-risk individuals. Nearly 85% (84.7%) of children were vaccinated compared to the national average of 36.8%. Almost 58% (57.5%) of people in high-risk groups were vaccinated compared to the national average of 33.2%.
“These numbers show that we reached the people who most needed to be protected,” said Director of Health David R. Gifford, MD, MPH. “Not only did Rhode Island have high coverage rates, but our H1N1 vaccination coverage rates far exceeded national averages. The combined effort of so many people allowed us to offer vaccine to as many people as possible. HEALTH is grateful for all of the hard work and dedication that was a part of this response.
Attendees to the recognition event included representatives from Rhode Island’s colleges and universities, schools, hospitals, municipalities, state agencies, and community partners.