Re-examining the Impact of Influenza and Benefits of Immunization:
Respiratory Viruses in the Development and Exacerbation of Asthma

Asthma is the most common chronic pediatric disorder, affecting nearly 6 million U.S. children under 18 years of age. It accounts for over 640,000 annual emergency room visits and is the third leading cause of hospitalization in children.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and other major medical and public health groups recommend influenza vaccination for all children with asthma. Yet, studies show even in the best years, only one-third of these children are vaccinated.

Annual influenza vaccination is vital for all children with asthma, regardless of its severity, to protect them from influenza and its complications. Children with asthma have increased instances of hospitalization, outpatient visits and antibiotic prescriptions during influenza season.

This program highlights the need for routine influenza vaccination for children with asthma, examines how to define the asthmatic child and reviews the importance of increasing recognition of the impact of influenza in this high-risk population.