Kids (and Adults) With Neurological Impairments Recommended For Flu Shot

Parents are advised by the CDC officials to have high risk children and teenagers immunized against the flu, but this year they have added another group to the “high-risk” group. This something that affects the autism community.

The new group are those affected by neurological impairments. Although we don’t know what causes autism, most people believe it to be a neurological disorder. If someone with autism has epilepsy, he or she is definitely considered high risk.

The flu shots, to the best of my knowledge, do contain thimerosal. This is a decision parents and guardians must make individually. It is a matter of risk vs. benefit. For some, the importance of the shot may be primary. For others, it may not be. Those teens and adults living in community environments, are particularly at risk for secondary or complicating factors associated with the flu.

This information is up to you. Research it carefully and discuss it with your physician. The flu is a serious disease and for teens and adults with complicating health problems, it is even more critical to make the decision appropriate to the individual with autism.

The CDC Answers Questions about the Flu Shot