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Pandemic Flu

Risk for Those Without a Spleen

09/24/2009

Question:

Is there any reason to believe that this years H1N1 flu would pose additional risk for those without a spleen?

Answer:

CDC`s Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) recommends a single dose of PPSV23 for all people 65 years and older and for persons 2 to 64 years of age with certain high-risk conditions. People in these groups are at increased risk of pneumococcal disease as well as serious complications from influenza. A single revaccination at least five years after initial vaccination is recommended for people 65 years and older who were first vaccinated before age 65 years as well as for people at highest risk, such as those who have no spleen, and those who have HIV infection, AIDS, or malignancy. Also, seasonal influenza and H1N1 vaccination is indicated for patients without a spleen.

Related Resources:

Interim guidance for use of 23-valent pneumococcal polysaccharide vaccine during novel influenza A (H1N1) outbreak

For more information:

Go to the Pandemic Flu health topic, where you can:

Response by:

Case Western Reserve University Amy J Ray, MD
Assistant Professor of Medicine
Division of Infectious Diseases and HIV Medicine
Department of Medicine
School of Medicine
Case Western Reserve University
Amy J Ray, MD