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Human immunodeficiency virus infection and routine childhood immunisation
Lancet (London, England)
|September 19, 1987
Summary
Vaccines are generally safe for children with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection, though live vaccines may cause complications. Immunization is recommended for HIV-infected children, as they face increased risk from vaccine-preventable diseases.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Pediatrics
- Infectious Diseases
Background:
- Children with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection may have altered responses to vaccinations.
- The safety and efficacy of routine immunizations in this population require careful consideration.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review current data on vaccine safety and efficacy in individuals with HIV.
- To inform decisions regarding routine immunizations for children with HIV.
Main Methods:
- Review of existing literature on vaccine safety and efficacy in HIV-infected individuals.
- Analysis of adverse events, serological responses, and disease outcomes.
Main Results:
- Inactivated vaccines showed no adverse reactions; live vaccines (BCG, smallpox) caused complications.
- Limited data on live polio and measles vaccines in HIV-infected children show no severe complications.
- Reduced serological response to vaccines is observed, correlating with immunosuppression levels.
- HIV-infected children may experience more severe vaccine-preventable diseases.
Conclusions:
- Theoretical concerns about accelerated HIV progression due to immunization are not supported by data.
- General support exists for current World Health Organization immunization recommendations for HIV-infected children.
- Immunization is crucial for HIV-infected children due to increased disease severity risk.