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Persons using assistive technology might not be able to fully access information in this file. For assistance, please send e-mail to: mmwrq@cdc.gov. Type 508 Accommodation and the title of the report in the subject line of e-mail. Surgeon General's Advisory on the Use of Salicylates and Reye SyndromeBecause the use of salicylates such as aspirin for children with influenza and chickenpox has been associated with Reye syndrome, the Surgeon General advises against use of salicylate and salicylate-containing medications for children with these diseases. The association of salicylates with Reye syndrome is based upon evidence from epidemiologic studies that are sufficiently strong to justify this warning to parents and health care personnel. First recognized about 19 years ago, Reye syndrome is a rare, acute, life-threatening condition characterized by vomiting and lethargy that may progress to delirium and coma. Most commonly it occurs in children who are recovering from viral infections, particularly influenza and chickenpox. The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) estimates that 600-1,200 cases occur each year in the United States, most in persons between the ages of 5 and 16 years. Death occurs in 20%-30% of reported cases, and permanent brain damage has also been reported in survivors. There have been reports for several years suggesting an association between Reye syndrome and the prior use of common medications. However, the results of recent case-control studies have made it possible to assess the association with specific drugs. These studies conducted by state health departments suggest an association between prior ingestion of aspirin and other salicylates and Reye syndrome. The studies in Arizona and Michigan have been published (1,2). The largest of these studies, conducted in Ohio, is expected to appear shortly in the Journal of the American Medical Association. The Surgeon General notes that the matter has been reviewed recently by several groups from within and outside government.
advises against the use of salicylates and salicylate-containing medications for children with influenza and chickenpox.* References
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