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Seasonal and H1N1v influenza vaccines in MS: safety and compliance
Eitan Auriel1, Avi Gadoth, Keren Regev
1Department of Neurology, Tel Aviv Sourasky Medical Center and Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel.
Background:
Viral infections may induce exacerbation of multiple sclerosis (MS), and attempts should be made to prevent them in MS patients by means of vaccines, but immunization is considered to possibly trigger autoimmune disease activity.
Aims:
We studied the safety and patient compliance of seasonal influenza and H1N1v influenza vaccines.
Methods:
Clinical data on 101 consecutive patients with MS who participated in the study conducted between December, 2009 and February, 2010 were retrieved from the patients' charts. They all filled in a questionnaire on demographics, clinical symptoms and, when applicable, date of being vaccinated for seasonal influenza and/or H1N1v influenza.
Results:
Five of the 49 vaccinated patients reported side effects of fever or flu-like symptoms associated with the administration of either of the vaccines: there were no complications or need for hospitalization. No patient reported any new neurological symptoms following the use of either vaccine. It emerged that many MS patients did not receive at least one of the vaccines, and that a substantial number of physicians were unsure of how to advise on vaccinations.
Conclusions:
Our results are intended to help reassure patients with MS and their physicians about the safety of seasonal influenza and H1N1v influenza vaccines.
Insights
Influenza vaccination is safe for multiple sclerosis (MS) patients, with no reported neurological side effects. This study aims to reassure MS patients and physicians about vaccine safety and encourage uptake.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Immunology
- Vaccinology
Background:
- Viral infections can trigger multiple sclerosis (MS) exacerbations.
- Vaccination is recommended for MS patients to prevent infections.
- Concerns exist regarding potential autoimmune activity triggered by vaccines.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the safety and patient compliance of seasonal influenza and H1N1v influenza vaccines in MS patients.
- To address physician uncertainty regarding vaccination advice for MS patients.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective analysis of clinical data from 101 MS patients (December 2009 - February 2010).
- Patients completed questionnaires on demographics, symptoms, and vaccination status.
- Data included information on seasonal influenza and H1N1v vaccination.
Main Results:
- Five out of 49 vaccinated patients reported mild, transient side effects (fever, flu-like symptoms).
- No patients experienced new neurological symptoms or required hospitalization post-vaccination.
- Many MS patients did not receive recommended vaccines, and physicians expressed uncertainty about advising on them.
Conclusions:
- Seasonal influenza and H1N1v vaccines are safe for MS patients.
- The findings aim to reassure MS patients and healthcare providers about vaccine safety.
- Increased vaccine uptake in MS patients is encouraged to prevent viral infections.
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