COVID19 Vaccination Information for Vasculitis Patients

[John_Mills]

vasculitis.org.uk/news/covi...

COVID 19 VACCINATION IMPORTANT INFORMATION FOR VASCULITIS PATIENTSWith the imminent arrival of two or more covid vaccines, many people with vasculitis are understandably confused and worried about safety and suitability of the new vaccines for vasculitis patients.

So, on your behalf, we consulted one of the most respected authorities on vasculitits in the land. The reply indicated that there is insufficient clear evidence at present to offer robust answers to some of those pressing questions.

1) Are the vaccines safe?

2) Are the vaccines safe for people who are immune suppressed?

3) Will the vaccine be effective people for who are immune suppressed – especially those who are taking rituximab?

4) Which vaccine is best for people taking immune suppressing drugs?

5) Will the vaccine need regular booster doses?

[Mish-da]

Thank you John for this info.

As I had my 2nd infusion of Rituximab last month I’m guessing I shouldn’t be having it if they are saying all vaccines shouldn’t be given for 4-6 mths after infusion?

[SandieB in reply to Mish-da]

Hi i have just been told that you can have the vaccine 4weeks before or 4weeks after retuximab that was by the rhumatologist

[Galaxy2]

Thanks John, much appreciated. I’ve been trying find out if I could have the vaccine and if so when. Just having rituximab at the moment so think I’ll have quite a wait.

[bumble05]

I was hoping to be one of the first to have the vaccine because I was classed as extremely vunerable and told to shield because of my churg strauss. I was working as a domiciliary in hospitals. Ive been on predesilone for 7 years and now trying monthly injections of Nukala to hopefully reduce the predesilone which has been thinning my bones as I have had quite a few fractures. I've always been told to have the flu jabs.

[Red-head44]

Cheers John. Will wait eagerly for your update when you get more info.

[AndrewT]

Dear John,

I have spoken to Professor David Jane's Registrar, at Addenbrooke's, and apparently ALL the relevant Doctors/ Specialist have a had a 'Meeting' and Declared these Vaccines 'Safe'. (for Immune Suppressed Patients) I have also received 'Similar' advice, from 'other quarters' too.

As regards to Immunity/ Efficacy and Longevity, of any Vaccine, this has yet to be established. The current 'thinking', seems to be, that it Should 'give some immunity'... which must be 'better than none'. All a little Uncertain, with a Lot of 'unknowns'. I can't comment, on interactions with Rituximab, as I have personally never been given, this drug. (which surprises me.... I've had most of the 'others'!)

The 'Available' evidence Tends To Indicate that, Top Up Dose(s) May Very Well be needed, possibly for some time. There is Necessarily still a 'Fair Bit' of uncertainty.... especially with such a New Virus.

At the 'End Of The Day', I think, that it is 'up' to the individual, to 'weigh up' the 'risks/ benefits' and the decide for yourself.... I have decided, for myself, I AM having the 'jab' when it's offered.

Whatever you decide, if it's not too late, have a Happy New Year 2021

AndrewT