LAIV Flu Vaccine well tolerated among children with cystic fibrosis

[enniob]

As we approach flu season in the Northern hemisphere, here is a study just out where researchers have concluded that Live Attenuated Influenza Vaccine [LAIV] (The Nasal Spray Flu Vaccine) is well tolerated among children with cystic fibrosis. They said: "Given the clinically severe impact of influenza infection in a child with cystic fibrosis, the risks associated with infection outweigh the risk of minor respiratory and systemic symptoms associated with the vaccine".

Today's Press release: http://t.co/j8OAs0m8aG
Source of research: http://t.co/sOGz9fTdFc
CDC website on LAIV: http://t.co/lQ894dMIrz

- Chris

 

[Aboveallislove]

Why take any risk with the nasal vaccine? Get the shot (and quadtravelent (sp?), asap, but a live nasal one? I'd never do that.

 

[enniob]

Hi Aboveallislove, this particular studies objectives were:

OBJECTIVES: Given the improved efficacy of the nasal live-attenuated influenza virus vaccine (LAIV) compared with the injectable vaccine in children, we aimed to determine its safety in individuals with cystic fibrosis (CF).

So they looked specifically at the naval version and they have mentioned it's has increased efficiency over the shot. I can imagine that in children, a shot may not be a welcomed sight and a nasal spray maybe more efficient in its delivery.

The study does not address adults though...

- Chris

 

[Aboveallislove]

Interesting and thanks for the response! I'll have to look more closely but was the increased efficiency such that it overtook the risk of the live virus? And a shot ain't nothing for the CF kids who have annual blood draws of what, like 10 vials. And even if it were, I'd still not risk the live virus to avoid a shot even if ds was totally phobic...and not like he doesn't get them with normal immunizations.

 

[enniob]

Hi Aboveallislove, I did not get into the specifics. I references the sturdy and CDC if you would like to look into it further. I think this is a great topic to bring up with you physician though and reference this study as its very new and many physicians may not be aware of it yet. I saw the CFF just had some treatment advice out today on facebook for the upcoming flu season too...so its all actually. But will vary a lot on a case by case basis of course.
- Chris