Immunity levels of covid vaccine when on immunosuppressants

[Poppyred300]

I’m due to have my covid vaccine next week which I’m over the moon about. Due to having AIH and being on immunosuppressants I’ve been shielding for a year now. My question is - will having the vaccine mean after the specified time will I have the immunity that the companies say that is possible or because of the low immunity due to the immunosuppressants will my immunity be less than the pharma companies say ?

[AyrshireK]

The government green book re. the vaccination programmes says "Some immunosuppressed patients may have a suboptimal immunological response to the vaccine". It's still way better than being totally unprotected from covid.

[Ellewoods1]

How long are you protected after receiving both vaccines?

[AyrshireK in reply to Ellewoods1]

It sounds very much like this illness will be around for a long time and it will continually mutate (as the seasonal flu does each year). All the top scientific advisors seem to say we will need continual boosters or a modified jab perhaps yearly (like we do with the flu shot) to deal with the different variant strains.

[Bikafella]

The short answer is that at the moment, they don't know how effective the vaccines will be for people who are on immuno- suppressants as all testing is done on people in good health with no underlying conditions. That way they know that any reactions or adverse side effects are due to the vaccine only and not because of other medication they may be on. Down the line maybe 6-9 months, the data may reveal that you ARE or are NOT getting sufficient antibodies or antigens to offer you adequate protection. But as Katie said you have everything to gain from taking the vaccine and it doesn't matter which one you're offered.

[Hidden]

Hi Poppyred300

I am 2 years post liver transplant and also have been immunosuppressed for all that time. I had my first vaccine last week and due to have the second next month. My understanding of the benefits for us being vaccinated is kind of like when we get the Flu jab, we are somewhat protected against that particular threat. We have a better chance of fighting off the infection than without it so, as it is really beneficial for us to receive the Flu jab it’s equally beneficial to have the Covid vaccines so we can be somewhat reassured of a more positive outcome than without it. Fantastic news that your getting yours soon. Take care.

[ballie52]

Has anyone with cirrhosis under 60 been offered it yet?

[AyrshireK in reply to ballie52]

Yes, having cirrhosis puts you in the high risk group - those with underlying conditions and this group are in the current roll out. My hubby had his last weekend (age 59 & I got mine as his carer (aged 47).

[ballie52 in reply to AyrshireK]

Thanks Ayrshirek