Influenza vaccination in autoimmune neuromuscular diseases: A survey of current practices and perceptions

Introduction Recommendations for receiving the influenza vaccination in patients with autoimmune neuromuscular disorders, such as myasthenia gravis (MG), chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyneuropathy (CIDP), or Guillain-Barre syndrome (GBS), may vary among neurology practitioners. This survey examined the current practices and perceptions of neurologists regarding the influenza vaccination in these patients. Methods We performed an Internet-based survey among neurologists across the United States through online forums for neurologists. Results Across practice settings, 184 neurologists followed 6465 MG, 2313 CIDP, and 1907 GBS patients. Among the respondents, 82.6%, 58.8%, and 42.3% reported that they recommend the influenza vaccine for all patients with MG, CIDP, and GBS, respectively. Respondents practicing for more than 10 y were more conservative in recommending the influenza vaccine for all patients with MG. A history of exacerbation following the influenza vaccine was regarded as the most important factor influencing vaccine recommendation for MG and CIDP. Discussion Influenza vaccination recommendation practices varied between surveyed neurologists, despite existing guidelines. Clearer professional society recommendations and education are an unmet need based on this apparent knowledge gap.

Automated summary

The survey revealed varying recommendations among neurologists regarding influenza vaccination in patients with MG, CIDP, and GBS, despite existing guidelines. There is an unmet need for clearer professional society recommendations and education to address this apparent knowledge gap.