FA16 Immunization Module’s Updates

Vaccinating Immunocompromised Patients

Vaccination of immunocompromised patients is based on considering the balance of efficacy and safety of vaccinating the individual. The option of non-live vaccines is available to provide a safer alternative for patients. However, because of their immunocompromised state, they are less likely to respond effectively against to the injected pathogen, negating any benefit of the vaccine. 

The use of live vaccines has been shown to induce high mortality in younger patients or those with severely compromised immune systems. However, there are circumstances where the use of live vaccines may actually be beneficial in immunocompromised individuals. 

When dealing with immunocompromised individuals, environment plays an important factor. If possible, other members of the household should be vaccinated to prevent spreading disease to the immunocompromised individual. In instances, where the patient is not presently, but will become immunocompromised, it is recommended to have them up to date on their vaccines when possible. 

http://www.clinicalmicrobiologyandinfection.com/article/S1198-743X(14)61367-7/fulltext

http://www.aafp.org/afp/2014/1101/p664.html

  • Lee Seymour