​First generation Latinos often have better health behaviors and outcomes than second and third generation Latinos. This study examined the correlates of seasonal influenza vaccinations among Mexican-identified (Mexican) adults, who make up the largest Latino subgroup in California. 

A sample of Mexican adults from the 2011–2012 California Health Interview Survey (CHIS) was used to compare the odds of first, second, and third generation Mexicans receiving influenza vaccinations in the past year.

Findings: Authors found that being a second and third generation or later Mexican was associated with lower odds of getting an influenza vaccination compared to first generation Mexicans. Having a chronic disease, and access to care was associated with higher odds of vaccination, while lower age was associated with lower odds of vaccination among both US-, and foreign-born Mexicans. 

Given that the majority of Mexicans in California are U.S.-born, the fact that being second- and third-generation Mexicans was associated with lower influenza vaccination rates is of significant concern.