H1N1 Risk and Vulnerability: Applying Intersectionality in a Pandemic Context

Abstract

During influenza pandemics, existing health disparities are exacerbated, increasing vulnerability to disease among minority populations. This research utilized national survey data collected during 2009-10 H1N1 Influenza pandemic to examine the relationship between vulnerability and perceived H1N1 risk in a sample (N=1,479) of non-Hispanic White, non-Hispanic Black, and Hispanic adults and the prospective association of vulnerability and perceived H1N1 risk on vaccine uptake seven months later (N=913). Bivariate analysis and linear regression modeling were used to detect patterns in perceived H1N1 risk. Logistic regression modeling was used to test independent variables on vaccine uptake. Hispanics and non-Hispanic Blacks had higher vulnerability compared to non-Hispanic Whites. Race/ethnicity and vulnerability were significant independent predictors for perceived H1N1 risk. We observed a positive, graded relationship between odds of vaccination and perceived H1N1 risk.