Flu Shots & Vaccines Critical for People with Rheumatic Diseases

Understanding Flu Shots for People with Rheumatic Diseases

Getting an annual flu shot is an important preventative measure for everyone, but especially critical for those living with chronic rheumatic diseases. New vaccination guidance released by the American College of Rheumatology sheds light on the importance of flu shots and other vaccinations for people with conditions like rheumatoid arthritis, psoriatic arthritis, lupus, and more.

Why the Flu Shot Matters for Rheumatic Diseases

People living with rheumatic disease are at higher risk for complications from influenza, often due to suppressed immune systems from the conditions themselves or medications used for treatment. Getting the flu can not only increase disease activity and severity of symptoms, but also land those with compromised health in the hospital.

The updated recommendations note that all people aged 6 months or older should get an annual flu shot, especially those with conditions like:

• Rheumatoid arthritis
• Psoriatic arthritis
• Lupus
• Myositis
• Sjgren's syndrome
• Scleroderma

Maximizing Effectiveness of the Influenza Vaccine

Timing plays an important role in ensuring flu shot effectiveness. The guidance notes that peak protection comes 2-4 weeks after receiving the vaccination. As such, it's best for people with rheumatic disease to aim for getting their flu shot in late September or early October, as flu activity tends to ramp up in November.

For those on immunosuppressive medications, coordination with care providers can help maximize vaccine effectiveness. Some drugs may need reduced dosages, adjusted schedules around the vaccination, or briefly paused to ensure an appropriate immune response is mounted to the vaccine.

Other Key Vaccinations for People with Rheumatic Diseases

While the flu shot takes center stage in the guidelines, other important vaccinations are highlighted that can help keep those with rheumatologic conditions stay healthy.

Pneumococcal Vaccines

Pneumonia poses significant risks for those on immunosuppressive medications. Two types of pneumococcal vaccines are recommended:

• PCV13 protects against 13 strains of the bacteria that cause pneumococcal pneumonia.
• PPSV23 protects against 23 strains of pneumococcal bacteria and provides broader protection.

For most adults, CDC recommends getting PPSV23 first, followed by a dose of PCV13 one year later. A second dose of PPSV23 is recommended after age 65 to boost protection as immune systems age.

COVID-19 Vaccines & Boosters

Multiple studies have shown the COVID vaccines help lessen severity of breakthrough infections for immunocompromised patients. As such, staying up to date on COVID-19 vaccinations with both primary series and recommended boosters is advised.

Given production of antibodies to vaccines may be reduced in rheumatic disease patients on immunosuppressive drugs, checking antibody levels post-vaccination can provide helpful insight for an individuals level of protection.

Herpes Zoster Vaccination

Also known as shingles, the herpes zoster virus causes a painful rash and blisters. The vaccines Shingrix or Zostavax are recommended to prevent shingles outbreaks, which can have severe complications in those on immunosuppressive medications. Two doses of Shingrix 2-6 months apart is over 90% effective at preventing shingles from developing.

Protecting Vulnerable Populations from Influenza

While flu shots and other vaccinations work to prime an individual's immune system against viruses, community protection also plays an important role. Herd immunity through widespread vaccination uptake helps create "rings of protection around those unable to get certain shots due to health issues like allergies or pregnancy.

Pediatric Flu Shots Protect Newborns

Since babies under 6 months cannot receive the influenza vaccine themselves, vaccinating children and adults around infants creates vital buffers of protection. Pediatric flu vaccination helps prevent spread to vulnerable newborns too young for their own flu shot.

Employee Vaccination Policies

Workplace flu shot policies requiring influenza vaccination for healthcare personnel provide significant health benefits. Employees staying healthy through flu shot uptake reduces staffing shortages that can impact patient care access during viral seasons. It also protects vulnerable patients from exposure to influenza strains that could have severe health outcomes.

The updated American College of Rheumatology recommendations provide an important reminder of the year-round precautions needed for people managing complex rheumatic diseases. Coordinating timely flu, pneumonia, shingles, and COVID-19 vaccinations with your healthcare providers adds additional layers of protection for those living with high-risk conditions. Staying vigilant outside of viral seasons ensures you enter cold and flu months armed with as much immune preparation as possible.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.