Immunization Patterns of Children with Chronic Neurological and Neurodevelopmental Disorders: A Cross-Sectional Study...

Area of Science:

• Pediatric Neurology
• Immunology
• Public Health

Background:

• Children with chronic neurological and neurodevelopmental disorders (CNDD) are a vulnerable population.
• Routine childhood immunization can be interrupted due to clinical complexity and parental concerns in this group.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate immunization patterns in children with CNDD.
• To identify factors associated with vaccination interruption and status.
• To analyze timing of vaccination interruption and sociodemographic influences.

Main Methods:

• Prospective cross-sectional study of 545 children (aged 1-18 years) with CNDD.
• Classification of immunization status: fully vaccinated, partially vaccinated, or unvaccinated.
• Assessment of clinical factors (e.g., Gross Motor Function Classification System) and sociodemographic data.

Main Results:

• 72.1% were fully vaccinated, 25.0% partially, and 2.9% unvaccinated.
• Vaccination status varied significantly by diagnosis (p < 0.001), with lower rates in autism spectrum disorder and cerebral palsy, higher in Down syndrome.
• Partial vaccination was more frequent than refusal; interruption after 48 months was common. Maternal age was linked to incomplete vaccination.

Conclusions:

• Incomplete immunization in CNDD is often partial vaccination, not complete refusal, with diagnosis-specific patterns.
• Pediatric neurology follow-up can support tailored immunization counseling.
• Understanding these patterns is crucial for improving vaccine coverage in this vulnerable population.