The Guillain–Barré Syndrome and the 1992–1993 and 1993–1994 Influenza Vaccines

Guillain–BarrÉ syndrome is characterized by loss of reflexes and symmetric paralysis, usually beginning in the legs, with eventual nearly complete or complete clinical recovery in most cases. 1 , 2 It is mediated by an immune response that results in the direct destruction of either the myelin sheath surrounding the peripheral nerves or the axon itself, and it may or may not follow triggering events, including vaccinations. 3 , 4 Among the vaccines reported to be associated with the onset of Guillain–Barré syndrome are the swine influenza (A/ New Jersey) vaccine in 1976–1977, oral poliovirus vaccine, and tetanus toxoid. 5 The association with the A/ . . .