Influenza vaccination for immunocompromised patients: systematic review and meta-analysis by etiology

J Infect Dis. 2012 Oct;206(8):1250-9. doi: 10.1093/infdis/jis487. Epub 2012 Aug 16.

Abstract

Many national guidelines recommend annual influenza vaccination of immunocompromised patients, although the decision to vaccinate is usually at clinical discretion. We conducted a systematic review and meta-analyses to assess the evidence for influenza vaccination in this group, and we report our results by etiology. Meta-analyses showed significantly lower odds of influenza-like illness after vaccination in patients with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection, patients with cancer, and transplant recipients and of laboratory-confirmed influenza in HIV-positive patients, compared with patients receiving placebo or no vaccination. Pooled odds of seroconversion and seroprotection were typically lower in HIV-positive patients, patients with cancer, and transplant recipients, compared with immunocompetent controls. Vaccination was generally well tolerated, with variation in mild adverse events between etiological groups. Limited evidence of a transient increase in viremia and a decrease in the percentage of CD4(+) cells in HIV-positive patients was found although not accompanied by worsening of clinical symptoms. Clinical judgment remains important when discussing the benefits and safety profile with immunocompromised patients.

Publication types

  • Meta-Analysis
  • Review
  • Systematic Review

MeSH terms

  • Drug-Related Side Effects and Adverse Reactions / epidemiology
  • HIV Infections / complications
  • Humans
  • Immunocompromised Host
  • Influenza Vaccines / administration & dosage*
  • Influenza Vaccines / immunology*
  • Influenza, Human / epidemiology
  • Influenza, Human / prevention & control*
  • Neoplasms / complications
  • Transplantation / adverse effects
  • Vaccination / methods*

Substances

  • Influenza Vaccines