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-Barré 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.