Age under 60 months and underlying neurologic or neuromuscular disorder increase risk for influenza-related hospitalization

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In a retrospective cohort study over four influenza seasons, and including 842 children hospitalized and confirmed to have influenza, Newland et al found that the age of 6 to 60 months and underlying neurologic or neuromuscular disorder were independently associated risk factors for hospitalization. Odds ratios for hospitalization for these groups were several-fold higher than those of healthy older children and children without these disorders. Data support current influenza vaccine recommendations and underscore urgency for implementation.