Study: Almost one-third of adults are getting their flu shots after-hours

LOS ANGELES — A study published Monday evening by the Annals of Family Medicine found that 30.5% of adults seeking vaccinations did so during the evening (17.4%), on the weekend (10.2%) or on a holiday (2.9%), such as Columbus Day or Veterans Day. The study also found that the patients who most likely received vaccinations during these times were younger (less than 65 years old), male, residing in urban areas and without chronic conditions — groups with historically lower vaccination rates. 

"A large proportion of adults [are] being vaccinated … when traditional vaccine providers are likely unavailable," observed lead author Jeffrey Goud of the University of Southern California, School of Pharmacy. "With the low rates of adult and adolescent vaccination in the United States, community pharmacies are creating new opportunities for vaccination that expand access and convenience."

The study analyzed the more than 6 million flu shots administered by Walgreens pharmacists between August 2011 and July 2012.

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