Modern approaches to immunization of patients of rheumatologic profile

Abstract

Recently, the importance of comorbid infections in rheumatology has increased significantly, which have a significant impact on morbidity and mortality, especially in immuno-inflammatory rheumatic diseases (IIRD). In this regard, vaccination is becoming increasingly important in the prevention of infections in these patients. This review presents an updated version of the recommendations for vaccination of adult patients with IIRD, prepared by experts of the European Union League against Rheumatism (EULAR). There is a low (suboptimal) vaccination coverage of these patients, partly due to the low frequency of referral by doctors. The role of the rheumatology team in solving the problems associated with immunization of patients with IIRD is emphasized, as well as the importance of joint decision-making taking into account the needs and preferences of patients. The issues concerning the use of vaccines against influenza, pneumococcal infection, hepatitis B,

Keywords

• immuno-inflammatory rheumatic diseases
• infections
• influenza
• pneumonia
• human papilloma virus
• vaccination
• guidelines