Overview
People with Down syndrome differ from the general population in their response to infection, with increased susceptibility to some infections, which may also be more severe or prolonged. Children with Down syndrome should be offered all the routine immunisations suggested by their local schedule.
Additional doses of some routine vaccines may be indicated if felt to be at particular risk, and/or blood tests suggest that they have not responded well to the primary course. Additional immunisations may be recommended. e.g influenza vaccine, additional pneumoccal vaccines, RSV prophylaxis or Hepatitis B.
Updated January 2015
DSMIG Guidance
Updated January 2014
Presentations at DSMIG Meetings
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Additional Resources
Immunisation.Protecting People with Down’s Syndrome Against Infection
Article in DSA Journal 129 Spring/Summer 2014
Dr Liz Marder, Consultant Paediatrician
Immunisation against infectious disease
NHS England/Department of Health Updated 2014