‼️Despite a higher risk of infection in #SLE patients, vaccination rates are low due to:
🔹Fear
🔹Lack of trust
🔹Feeling of unsafety
🔹Belief in good health
🔹Lack of recommendations by doctor
💡Let's #KickLupus by shedding light on the facts & debunking the misconceptions surrounding vaccinations for people with lupus.
𝐌𝐲𝐭𝐡 1️⃣: Vaccines & lupus flares
One of the most common fears among #lupus patients is the possibility of vaccines causing a flare.
✅ Prof. Arnaud states that the risk of flare after vaccination is not confirmed. Typically the benefits of vaccination outweigh any potential, small risks.
𝐌𝐲𝐭𝐡 2️⃣: People with lupus should avoid all vaccines
✅ While some vaccines may not be recommended for people with lupus, many vaccines are safe and important.
Protecting against infections is key, as even minor illnesses could lead to complications in individuals with SLE.
𝐌𝐲𝐭𝐡 3️⃣: Lupus patients can't receive live vaccines
✅ Live vaccines are not typically recommended for lupus patients. However, in certain circumstances, it may be appropriate for some people to get live vaccines.
It is crucial this is assessed on a case-by-case basis by your doctor.
𝐌𝐲𝐭𝐡 4️⃣: Vaccines worsen lupus symptoms
✅ Vaccines don't worsen lupus symptoms. In fact, they help protect against infections, which could be more severe in lupus patients.
𝐌𝐲𝐭𝐡 5️⃣: Lupus patients should only get vaccines if they are in remission
✅ According to EULAR recommendations, vaccination in patients with lupus should preferably be administered during quiescent disease.
For patients with active disease, immunisation should not be ruled out & should be assessed on an individual basis.
𝐌𝐲𝐭𝐡 6️⃣: One dose of the vaccine covers you for life
✅ If you have lupus, your doctor should assess your vaccination status every year. That ensures vaccination strategies continue to be aligned with your needs & medical history.
Always consult with your doctor. They will tell you which vaccination schedule is safe & effective for you
🌏 Help us #KickLupus by raising awareness of the importance of immunisation.
Check the EULAR recommendations for vaccination in adult patients with autoimmune inflammatory rheumatic diseases:
ard.bmj.com/content/79/1/39
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Zoe Karakikla-Mitsakou
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