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Neurologic complications of 2009 influenza-a H1N1 infection in children

Osman Farooq1, Howard S Faden, Michael E Cohen

  • 1Women and Children's Hospital of Buffalo, Buffalo, NY, USA. osmanfarooq@yahoo.com

Journal of Child Neurology
|October 15, 2011
PubMed

Insights

Neurologic complications occurred in 19% of children during the 2009 Influenza-A H1N1 epidemic. Serious complications and deaths were observed, highlighting the need for vigilance in pediatric influenza cases.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatric Neurology
  • Infectious Diseases
  • Epidemiology

Background:

  • The 2009 Influenza-A H1N1 epidemic impacted global health.
  • Neurologic complications in children during this epidemic were not well-documented.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To analyze the incidence and types of neurologic complications in pediatric patients during the 2009 H1N1 epidemic.
  • To assess the severity and outcomes of these neurologic complications.

Main Methods:

  • Retrospective analysis of children testing positive for H1N1 at a tertiary children's hospital.
  • Review of patient data including demographics, clinical presentation, and outcomes.
  • Identification of specific neurologic complications.

Main Results:

  • 164 children tested positive for H1N1; 19% experienced neurologic complications.
  • Identified complications included headache, encephalitis, polyneuropathy, seizures, and malignant hyperthermia.
  • Serious neurologic complications occurred in 3%, with an additional 3% experiencing rapid deterioration and death.

Conclusions:

  • The 2009 H1N1 epidemic was associated with a significant rate of neurologic complications in children.
  • Clinical vigilance is crucial for identifying and managing neurologic issues during future influenza epidemics.
  • Further research into the mechanisms and long-term effects of H1N1-associated neurologic complications is warranted.

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