Influenza vaccination: reduction in hospitalizations and death rates among members of "Maccabi Healthcare Services" during the 2000-2001 influenza season.

Background: Upper respiratory tract illnesses have been associated with an increased risk of morbidity and mortality.

Objective: To assess the influence of vaccination against influenza on the risk of hospitalization in internal medicine and geriatric wards, and the risk of death from all causes during the 2000-2001 influenza season.

Methods: A historical cohort study was conducted using computerized general practitioner records on patients aged 65 years and above, members of "Maccabi Healthcare Services"--the second largest health maintenance organization in Israel with 1.