Influenza vaccination in children with asthma: a retrospective chart review

Asthma exacerbation during influenza infection may result in pneumonia, hospitalization, and death. The ACIP (Advisory Commission of Immunization Policy) now recommends cautious use of LAIV (live attenuated influenza vaccine) for children over 5 years, with a diagnosis of asthma, and remains a contraindication for children ages 2-4 years who have had asthma symptoms or wheeze within the last 12 months. It is critical to determine if the rate of influenza vaccination has changed since the implementation of these new guidelines.