Children with neurologic and neuromuscular disorders are at increased risk of serious flu-related complications but only one in two of these children are vaccinated against the flu each year, according to a new study co-authored by University of Louisville pediatric infectious diseases specialist Michael J. Smith, M.D., MSCE.
The study, which was published in the Centers for Disease Control’s Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report, also indicates that many pediatricians do not recognize intellectual disability as a high-risk condition for the flu.
These findings were based on an on-line survey of parents and caregivers on the Family Voices email list. Family Voices is a national advocacy group for children with special health care needs. The Family Voices press release about this study, a summary of key findings and the full CDC report can be accessed here.
To follow up with Dr. Smith about this study, contact Anne Eldridge, 502.852.0943, anne.eldridge@louisville.edu