The 2024 American Academy of Pediatrics’ (AAP) National Conference & Exhibition was held from September 27 to October 1, 2024, in Orlando, FL. This event is a cornerstone for pediatric professionals, providing a plethora of educational opportunities such as updates on pediatric practice, cutting-edge research, and advocacy.

Today, our focus is on the Vaccine & Allergy research that was showcased at AAP 2024. In recent years, there has been a noticeable rise in food allergies, asthma, and other allergic conditions among children. Additionally, vaccination remains a crucial topic in pediatrics, particularly in the post-pandemic era. The following highlights key research findings presented at the AAP 2024 conference.

Vaccine Research

Transmission of vaccine-strain varicella zoster virus from an immunocompetent mother to an infant causing disseminated varicella

  • Varicella, caused by the varicella zoster virus (VZV), is a highly contagious disease. The incidence of varicella has significantly decreased with the introduction of the live-attenuated vaccine. However, there is a theoretical risk of transmitting the vaccine-strain varicella zoster virus (Oka strain; vOka) to close contacts in the rare event of a localized outbreak post-vaccination. The risk of secondary disseminated varicella following such transmission is even more uncommon.
  • In this report, they presented a case of disseminated vaccine-strain varicella transmission from a mother to her 31-day-old infant after the mother received the varicella vaccine on the first day postpartum. It is important to note that vaccine-strain varicella can be transmitted from immunocompetent individuals to healthy newborns, leading to disseminated disease with liver involvement. Fortunately, systemic acyclovir proved to be an effective treatment in this case, resulting in an uncomplicated recovery. This case highlights the importance of understanding and managing the risks associated with vaccine-strain varicella transmission, particularly in vulnerable populations such as newborns.
  • Summary

Parental Influenza Vaccine Hesitancy During and After the COVID-19 Pandemic

  • Research on parental hesitancy towards childhood influenza vaccination during and after the COVID-19 pandemic is limited. In this study, researchers examined parents’ attitudes towards the influenza vaccine both before and after the pandemic. Additionally, they explored the reasons behind influenza vaccine hesitancy and sought to identify any correlations with demographic factors.
  • The study did not uncover any significant correlations between vaccine hesitancy and demographic factors. However, it did reveal that the percentage of parents opposed to the influenza vaccine decreased significantly during the COVID-19 pandemic compared to after the pandemic.
  • Summary

Parental, Pharmacist and Pediatrician: Value and Impact of Pharmacy-Based Immunizations on Pediatric Wellness

  • During the COVID-19 pandemic, the Public Readiness and Emergency Preparedness Act granted pharmacists the authority to administer any vaccine recommended by the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices to individuals aged 3-18 years. This authorization has been praised as a solution to combat declining pediatric immunization rates by improving accessibility. Several state legislatures have made this measure permanent, while others are currently considering it. However, there is a lack of assessment regarding the impact of pediatric vaccines administered outside of the medical home on comprehensive preventive care for children. This study aims to examine the perspectives of parents, pharmacists, and clinicians on pharmacy-based pediatric immunizations (PBI) and pediatric well-child checks (WCC).
  • While pharmacy-based immunizations are appealing to parents, they still place a high value on traditional well-child checks. Despite the potential benefits of convenience, choice, and flexibility associated with PBI, only a small percentage of parents currently take advantage of this option. The majority of parents prefer to continue adhering to WCC. Participation in the Vaccines for Children (VFC) program presents a barrier to equitable access to PBI for Medicaid and CHIP beneficiaries, as most surveyed pharmacies do not participate in the VFC program.
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Ethnic and socioeconomic factors influencing parental attitudes, knowledge and hesitancy towards Human Papilloma Virus vaccine

  • The human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination is approved for children aged 9 and older and has been proven effective in preventing genital warts and most HPV-associated cancers. Despite its benefits, many parents and caregivers still express hesitancy towards vaccinating their children.
  • A recent study has found that HPV vaccine hesitancy is not linked to socioeconomic factors. However, there are disparities in knowledge about the effectiveness of the HPV vaccine among different socioeconomic backgrounds. Further research is necessary to identify the underlying reasons for these knowledge gaps. To address these disparities, targeted strategies such as educational programs aimed at increasing awareness about HPV vaccination and addressing hesitancy are essential.
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Allergy Research

Reducing Inappropriate Penicillin Allergy Labels in Outpatient Pediatrics

  • The primary objective of this study is to reduce the number of inappropriate penicillin allergy labels among pediatric patients by 10% between September 2021 and June 2024. The overarching goal is to combat the issue of unwarranted penicillin allergy diagnoses in children on a global scale.
  • This project has made significant strides in successfully removing inaccurate penicillin allergy labels from pediatric patients. However, there have been challenges along the way. These challenges include the need for more healthcare providers to utilize our questionnaire to facilitate in-office delabeling and appropriate referrals to pediatric allergists. Additionally, ensuring follow-up care for referred patients has proven to be a hurdle. There are also opportunities to streamline the workflow of allergists to improve efficiency, as many patients do not return for a second visit.
  • Summary

Sleep Problems and Allergic Skin Conditions in Infants and Toddlers

  • Research has shown that parents who report higher rates of sleep problems in their children are more likely to also report itchy skin. Interestingly, these sleep issues were not necessarily associated with a diagnosis of atopic dermatitis, dry or flaky skin, or sensitive skin. Additionally, a significant number of mothers who reported their child had itchy skin did not mention a diagnosis of atopic dermatitis.
  • It is important for pediatricians to be aware of the potential impact of itchy skin on a child’s sleep, even if they do not meet the criteria for atopic dermatitis. By assessing for itchy skin and its potential effects on sleep, healthcare providers can better support families in addressing these challenges and promoting healthy sleep habits in young children.
  • Summary

Evaluating the Needs of Head Start Centers in Managing Food Allergies: Addressing Food Allergy Outcomes Disparities in Preschools

  • Food allergies have become a significant public health concern, impacting approximately 5.6 million children in the United States. Despite the widespread nature of food allergies, there are disparities in prevalence and outcomes that disproportionately affect underserved communities. Research has shown that Black children have a higher rate of food allergies compared to non-Hispanic White children, and both Black and Hispanic children experience more frequent food allergy-related emergency room visits. Additionally, young children face unique risks related to food allergies, with over half of all in-school allergic reactions to foods occurring in preschool settings.
  • The initial phase of the LEARN Early project has identified several key areas for improvement in food allergy management policies at Head Start centers. These areas include the need for increased allergen labeling and improved access to epinephrine. Despite high levels of self-reported preparedness, there are knowledge gaps in food allergy management that may hinder centers from participating in further education initiatives. Moving forward, the LEARN Early project will work collaboratively with Head Start centers to address their specific food allergy education and preparedness needs based on the findings from the initial phase.
  • Summary

AAP 2024 provided a distinctive opportunity to enhance your pediatric knowledge and network with colleagues. We encourage you to click here to access all the research presented at AAP 2024. We eagerly anticipate what they have planned for next year!

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