Abstract
Primary care physicians often have to care for clients with different developmental disabilities. This chapter related to infectious diseases issues in individuals with developmental disability summarizes the main issues to be cognizant of and emphasizes the role of primary care provider following this population. Multidisciplinary approaches are best in managing these individuals with better coordination by primary care providers that have adequate knowledge to manage and advocate for this special population. Anticipatory guidance to address relevant health issues appropriately will enhance opportunities for independent living and even assumption of active roles within their communities. There is a dynamic interaction between infections and outcomes of developmental disabilities. Some perinatal and post natal infections lead to developmental disabilities. In turn, people with developmental disabilities are prone to certain infections based on the underlying pathology and associated anatomical and functional defects or behavioral characteristics. Delivering immunizations for persons with disabilities often necessitates taking into consideration special precautions such as for children with metabolic disorders. Primary care providers should also be aware of the overwhelming evidence supporting the absence of a relationship between autism and immunization with any vaccine. Some underlying conditions are associated with increased frequency of certain respiratory, gastrointestinal, urinary or skin infections. Primary care providers play a pivotal role in guiding and managing dental caries. Individuals with restricted body mobility are at risk of pressure sores that should be examined for during follow up visits. As these individuals grow up, other aspects that should also be addressed by anticipatory guidance include the risk of sexually transmitted diseases and occupational hazards. Judicious use of appropriate antibiotics and application of universal precautions help limit antibiotic exposure and reduce the risk of emergence of resistant pathogens. © Springer International Publishing Switzerland 2016.