Related Experiment Video

Updated: May 22, 2026

Assessing Respiratory Immune Responses to Haemophilus Influenzae
06:32

Assessing Respiratory Immune Responses to Haemophilus Influenzae

Published on: June 29, 2021

Efficacy and safety of influenza vaccination in children with asthma

Maria Francesca Patria1, Rossana Tenconi, Susanna Esposito

  • 1Department of Maternal and Pediatric Sciences, Università degli Studi di Milano, Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milano, Italy.

Expert Review of Vaccines
|May 4, 2012
PubMed

Insights

Influenza vaccination is crucial for children with asthma, yet coverage is low due to parental and physician concerns. This review examines the benefits and safety of flu shots for pediatric asthma management.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatric Pulmonology
  • Infectious Diseases
  • Public Health

Background:

  • Asthma affects 12% of children globally, representing the most common childhood chronic illness.
  • Influenza infections in children with asthma can lead to severe complications, including exacerbations, increased airway hyper-reactivity, and hospitalization.
  • Despite recommendations, influenza vaccination rates in pediatric asthmatic populations remain suboptimal, influenced by uncertainties regarding clinical risks, vaccine benefits, and safety.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To analyze the rationale for influenza vaccination in children with asthma.
  • To discuss the link between influenza infection and asthma severity.
  • To document the efficacy and safety of influenza vaccination in pediatric asthmatic patients.

Main Methods:

  • Systematic review of existing literature.
  • Analysis of studies on influenza and pediatric asthma.
  • Evaluation of clinical trial data on influenza vaccine efficacy and safety in asthmatic children.

Main Results:

  • Influenza infection is a significant risk factor for asthma exacerbations and hospitalizations in children.
  • Influenza vaccination has demonstrated efficacy in reducing asthma-related complications and healthcare utilization.
  • Available data suggest that influenza vaccines are safe for use in pediatric asthmatic populations.

Conclusions:

  • Influenza vaccination is a critical preventive measure for children with asthma.
  • Addressing parental and physician concerns regarding vaccine efficacy and safety is essential to improve vaccination coverage.
  • Widespread influenza immunization can mitigate the burden of influenza-related morbidity in this vulnerable pediatric group.

More Related Videos

Noninvasive Sampling of Mucosal Lining Fluid for the Quantification of In Vivo Upper Airway Immune-mediator Levels05:31

Noninvasive Sampling of Mucosal Lining Fluid for the Quantification of In Vivo Upper Airway Immune-mediator Levels

Published on: August 7, 2017

An Optimized Hemagglutination Inhibition (HI) Assay to Quantify Influenza-specific Antibody Titers06:34

An Optimized Hemagglutination Inhibition (HI) Assay to Quantify Influenza-specific Antibody Titers

Published on: December 1, 2017

Related Concept Videos

Asthma-IV: Nursing Management01:30

Asthma-IV: Nursing Management

The nursing management of asthma is a comprehensive approach that relies heavily on the expertise and dedication of healthcare professionals. It involves thorough assessment, accurate diagnosis, strategic planning, effective implementation, and diligent evaluation. By meticulously following this step-by-step process, healthcare professionals play a crucial role in providing the best possible care and treatment for patients with asthma, enhancing their overall health and well-being.
First, in...
Asthma: Pathogenesis and Management01:20

Asthma: Pathogenesis and Management

Asthma is a chronic pulmonary condition involving inflammation of the airways, hyper-reactivity, and reversible obstruction of the airways. This condition can significantly impact a person's quality of life, making breathing difficult and leading to distressing symptoms.
Asthma is classified as allergic and non-allergic. Allergens such as dust mites, pollen, and pet dander trigger allergic asthma, while factors like cold air, intense emotions, or exercise can induce non-allergic asthma.
Asthma III: Clinical Manifestations01:13

Asthma III: Clinical Manifestations

Asthma presents with a characteristic pattern of episodic respiratory symptoms that reflect underlying airway inflammation, bronchoconstriction, and mucus hypersecretion. Although severity varies among individuals, certain clinical manifestations are considered hallmarks of the disorder and often guide diagnosis and assessment.Respiratory SymptomsA persistent cough is one of the most common early features of asthma. It is frequently dry and tends to worsen at night or in the early morning,...
Vaccinations01:51

Vaccinations

Overview
Asthma-IV: Diagnostic and Management01:30

Asthma-IV: Diagnostic and Management

The diagnosis and management of asthma are comprehensive, encompassing clinical assessments, lung function tests, and pharmacological interventions. Here's an overview:
Clinical Assessment for Asthma:
This is the first step in diagnosing and managing asthma. It includes:
Asthma-III: Symptoms and Complications01:24

Asthma-III: Symptoms and Complications

Asthma, a common chronic respiratory condition, is classified considering the frequency and severity of symptoms alongside lung function impairment. Understanding this classification is essential for appropriate treatment and management. Here's a detailed look at the classification of asthma and its clinical features and complications:
Classification of Asthma