Frequently Asked Questions by Respondents to the National Adult Immunization Survey

What is the purpose of the survey?

Who uses this information?

How are telephone numbers selected?

Is there a letter that explains the purpose of the study?

What is the legal authorization for the study?

How is confidentiality of information assured?

What information is available about immunizations and about places that provide immunization shots?

WHAT IS THE PURPOSE OF THE SURVEY?

The purpose of the National Adult Immunization Survey (NAIS) is to monitor the immunizations of adults, aged 50 and older, across the country. Many adults are not receiving their recommended immunizations for influenza and pneumonia. These immunizations help prevent serious illness and many hospitalizations among the older population. Return to Top

WHO USES THIS INFORMATION?

The National Center for Health Statistics and the National Immunization Program (both part of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention) will use the results of the study to help improve the health and well-being of all adults and older people in particular. By monitoring immunizations across the country, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention are able to assess the extent to which the country is reaching immunization goals for the population age 50 and older. No personal identifying information from survey participants will be released or published. 
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HOW ARE TELEPHONE NUMBERS SELECTED?

A computer randomly generates the telephone numbers that are used for the study's telephone survey. The NAIS conducts interviews with people across the entire country. 
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IS THERE A LETTER THAT EXPLAINS THE STUDY?

Most households selected for the study receive a letter in advance that explains the purpose of the study. This letter is from Dr. Edward J. Sondik, Director of the National Center for Health Statistics. Not all selected households receive a letter in advance, however, because the study does not have the mailing address for all telephone numbers selected for the study. You may view the letter or contact the study's telephone survey researchers at 1-800-293-5155 to have a letter sent to your home or to ask us questions about the survey. 
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WHAT IS THE LEGAL AUTHORIZATION FOR THE STUDY?

The study, which is conducted on behalf of the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, is authorized by the Public Health Service Act [Sections 306 & 2102(a)(7)]. You may call our toll-free number (800) 247-1970 to verify the legitimacy of this survey and obtain more information. 
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HOW IS CONFIDENTIALITY OF INFORMATION ASSURED?

Confidentiality is mandated by law. Findings will be issued only in summary form and U.S. law requires that the name of study participants not be associated with any answers. Unauthorized disclosure of confidential information is punishable by fines ranging from $5,000 to $50,000 and could result in imprisonment for up to 5 years. Also, a section of the NCHS Staff Manual on Confidentiality further explains the prohibitions against disclosure of confidential information. Return to Top

WHAT INFORMATION IS AVAILABLE ABOUT IMMUNIZATIONS AND ABOUT PLACES THAT PROVIDE IMMUNIZATIONS?

For more information regarding vaccinations or the phone number of a doctor or clinic near you, please call the National Immunization Hotline at (800) 232-2522 in English or (800) 232-0233 in Spanish. For more information about immunization, please visit the web site for the National Immunization Program. 
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This page last reviewed August 31, 2004