NEW YORK — Despite the efforts of pharmacists and other health care professionals, a recent poll finds that a significant number of Americans are unaware of the importance of getting the flu vaccine — especially in the senior citizen population. And many other individuals may be waiting too long to get their flu shots.

To reverse such patterns, retail pharmacies are pushing the message that they are convenient centers for customers to obtain flu shots.

“The results of our survey indicate the need for greater awareness among all Americans to understand the benefits of getting vaccinated and assisting older loved ones in making the decision,’’ said Papatya Tankut, vice president of pharmacy affairs at CVS/pharmacy, who added that all of the health care company’s pharmacies and MinuteClinic locations offer flu vaccinations.

“Getting an annual flu shot is the best way to help prevent the spread of influenza, especially for seniors, who are more susceptible to developing complications from the flu,” she said.

Flu shots are also available at all Walgreen Co. pharmacies as well as at Healthcare Clinics at selected Walgreens and Duane Reade pharmacies in New York. “The flu has hit harder the past couple of seasons, which is why it’s important to [get vaccinated], given the unpredictability that comes with every flu season,’’ advised chief medical officer Harry Leider.

“We’ve seen growing numbers of people waiting until December or January, or until flu activity becomes more widespread before getting their flu shot. The more people who get vaccinated, the better the community at large can be protected; however, that ‘herd immunity’ has been lacking somewhat the last two years, which has been a contributor to more severe flu seasons.”

Meijer Inc. pharmacists spent much of the month stressing to families the importance of getting flu shots before children return to the new school term. The retailer anticipates that it will administer 30% more flu shots this season than last year.

“The best time to get a flu shot is not October but actually before or soon after school starts,” said vice president Nat Love. “Once classes begin, kids can literally bring viruses into your home every day, and it becomes difficult to keep influenza from spreading throughout the whole family. There is no expiration date to receiving a flu shot, so the sooner you get your flu shot, the better chance you have of staying healthy.”

He said that walk-in services and new options for flu shots at retailers like Meijer are making it easier — and more appealing — for families to get ­vaccinated.

Bartell Drugs has launched an extensive seasonal flu vaccination program offering convenient in-store vaccinations at 63 store locations as well as an off-site flu clinic program serving area businesses and retirement communities (with 15 or more employees or residents). Among Bartell’s offerings is Fluzone High-Dose, designed specifically for people 65 and older.