Update on the 2009 pandemic influenza A H1N1 in children.
OBJECTIVE
To provide an updated review of the epidemiology, clinical presentations, and outcomes of the 2009 pandemic influenza A H1N1 in children.


RESULTS
The majority of cases of 2009 pandemic influenza A H1N1 in children have been mild. However, neurological complications, hospitalization, and even deaths have been reported in children. Death and severe illnesses have mostly occurred in children below 5 years of age and children with high-risk conditions. Coinfections with bacteria have also been reported. Most strains are sensitive to oseltamivir and all to zanamivir.


CONCLUSIONS
Even though the majority of cases of 2009 pandemic influenza A H1N1 are mild, severe disease does occur in children. In addition, neurological complications and coinfection with bacteria exist. Treatment with antiviral medications should be initiated within 48 h to be most effective. When pandemic H1N1 vaccines become available, the safety and efficacy of these vaccines in this vulnerable population will be important to document.
Halasa
Natasha B
NB
Division of Pediatric Infectious Diseases, Monroe Carell Jr. Children's Hospital at Vanderbilt, Vanderbilt University School of Medicine, 1161 21st Avenue South, D-7235 Medical Center North, Nashville, TN 37232-2581, USA. Natasha.halasa@vanderbilt.edu
D000998:Antiviral Agents / Q000627:therapeutic use; D002648:Child; D004196:Disease Outbreaks; D006801:Humans; D053118:Influenza A Virus, H1N1 Subtype; D007252:Influenza Vaccines; D007251:Influenza, Human / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000453:epidemiology / Q000628:therapy
D000998:Antiviral Agents; D007252:Influenza Vaccines