[Vaccination against influenza and Guillain-Barre syndrome: are there any relations?]

Abstract

Influenza, a disease known for centuries, continues to be a major medical problem throughout the world with substantial economical and health impact. The risk of death related to influenza is higher among individuals over 65 years of age and those with chronic diseases. Vaccination against influenza was successfully applied in massive prophylaxis of the disease in different countries for many years. Although there are some well known and monitored adverse reactions to influenza vaccines, the evidence whether influenza vaccination might be causally associated with higher risk of Guillain-Barré syndrome is not clear. In this paper the available literature data concerning this problem were reviewed. Own experiences on influenza vaccination and plasmapheresis treatment of Guillain-Barré syndrome were presented.