Evaluation of immunization status in children with chronic neurological disease

Abstract

Objective: Children with chronic neurological disease have an increased risk for some vaccine-preventable diseases. Immunization may be delayed or not implemented due to conditions that do not cause temporary or permanent contraindication in these children. In this study, we aim to evaluate the immunization status of children with chronic neurological disorders and to define the factors in non-immunized children. Methods: Children aged between 6 months-18 years, with chronic neurological disease were enrolled. The primary endpoint of the study was to evaluate age- appropriate immunization status of children. Secondary end points are immunization records of vaccine are not implemented to NIP and factors affecting immunization practices. Results: 366 children with chronic neurological disease were enrolled. 87.7% of the patients had immunization records. 95.6% of children were vaccinated according to the routine NIP. In four patients, vaccinations were postponed due to seizures or hospitalization, and completed later. Twelve children (3.6%) were not vaccinated. Among the reasons for not vaccinating, only two children have true contraindications to. Five parents do not agree to vaccinate their children. 86.3% of the children were found to have no special vaccine, other than NIP. 86.6% of children have never had influenzae vaccines before 92.6% of children’s household members have no history for influenza vaccine. 49.4% of children have been received conjugated pneumococcal vaccine according to NIP schedule. Conclusion: In our study, we observed higher immunization rate among children with chronic neurological disease. Lack of immunization rate is low however causes are not true contraindications. Although children with chronic neurological diseases were in the risk group for influenza and pneumococcal infections, vaccination rates in themselves and in family members were found to be very low. Increasing influenza and pneumococcal vaccine in children with chronic neurological disease have benefits, including prevention of morbidity and mortality related these infections.