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LAIV added to immunization schedule
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The childhood and adolescent immunization recommendations for 2019 have been updated to include the use of a live-attenuated intranasal influenza vaccination, or LAIV, in instances in which a child would otherwise refuse vaccination.
Over the past few seasons, the AAP has recommended the inactivated influenza vaccine (IIV), which is administered via injection, over LAIV because it performed better against influenza A(H1N1)pdm09.
“I think everyone is very hopeful that the vaccine will work because the technology is attractive and some children would rather get a nasal spray than a shot,” H. Cody Meissner, MD, professor of pediatrics at Tufts Medical Center and an AAP consultant, told Infectious Diseases in Children. “It would be nice to have this vaccine as an option, but for now, the AAP is suggesting that LAIV be reserved for children who refuse a shot. It’s better that a child gets a vaccine that may not work as well than to remain unvaccinated.”
Meissner, who is also an Infectious Diseases in Children Editorial Board member, added that the AAP’s revised recommendation still differs from the CDC’s recommendation, which is to provide either influenza vaccine — IIV or LAIV — that is appropriate based on the patient’s age and health status.
Each year, the academy’s immunization recommendations are approved by the AAP, the CDC’s Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices, the American Academy of Family Physicians and the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists.
“I think the AAP is hopeful that the vaccine will work and that the data available from the CDC this summer will demonstrate that FluMist works better than in the past," Meissner said. “In this case, the AAP may consider a revised recommendation that is harmonious with the CDC recommendation.” – by Katherine Bortz
Disclosure : Meissner reports no relevant financial disclosures.
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