HHS: COVID-19 vaccinations linked to fewer hospitalizations, deaths

COVID-19 vaccinations may have helped prevent an estimated 265,000 COVID-19 infections, 107,000 hospitalizations and 39,000 deaths among Medicare beneficiaries between January and May 2021, according to a study released today by the Department of Health and Human Services’ Office of the Assistant Secretary for Planning and Evaluation. The study found an 11%-12% decline in weekly COVID-19 hospitalizations and deaths among Medicare beneficiaries for every 10% increase in county vaccination rates over the period. All racial and ethnic groups and all 48 states analyzed experienced fewer COVID-19 deaths, hospitalizations and infections, with the largest declines among American Indian and Alaska Native Medicare beneficiaries, HHS said.

"This report reaffirms what we hear routinely from states: COVID-19 vaccines save lives, prevent hospitalizations, and reduce infection," said HHS Secretary Xavier Becerra.