Perceptions matter: Beliefs about influenza vaccine and vaccination behavior among elderly white, black and Hispanic Americans

► We examine personal beliefs about vaccines among elderly Americans. ► High vaccination rates were associated with positive beliefs. ► No racial disparities were observed for those with high education attainment and positive beliefs. ► High vaccination rates and positive beliefs were associated with low education attainment only among whites. ► Minorities with low education attainment and positive beliefs had lower vaccination rates.