Flu Vaccination for Patients with Autoimmune Diseases
Author Information
Author(s): Ljudmila Stojanovich
Primary Institution: "Bezhanijska Kosa" University Medical Center, Belgrade University, Serbia
Hypothesis
Does influenza vaccination increase the risk of disease exacerbation in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) and rheumatoid arthritis (RA)?
Conclusion
Influenza vaccination is safe and well tolerated in patients with SLE and RA in stable condition, and it significantly reduces the occurrence of infections.
Supporting Evidence
- The vaccine was well tolerated by all patients in the vaccinated groups.
- Vaccinated patients had significantly fewer occurrences of infections compared to unvaccinated patients.
- Every viral and bacterial infection resulted in worsening of the main disease.
Takeaway
Getting a flu shot is safe for people with certain autoimmune diseases, and it helps keep them from getting sick.
Methodology
The study included 69 SLE patients and 54 RA patients, divided into vaccinated and unvaccinated subgroups, and monitored for infections and disease activity over a year.
Potential Biases
Potential bias in patient selection and reporting of adverse events.
Limitations
The study's findings may not apply to all patients, as decisions on vaccination should be made individually.
Participant Demographics
69 patients with SLE (mean age 44.74) and 54 patients with RA (mean age 57.78).
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.005 for viral infections in SLE patients.
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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