Immunization coverage against capsular bacteria in splenectomized patients.

Area of Science:

• Infectious Diseases
• Immunology
• Public Health

Background:

• Splenectomy elevates the risk of severe infections from encapsulated bacteria like Streptococcus pneumoniae, Haemophilus influenzae b, and Neisseria meningitidis.
• Routine immunizations are recommended post-splenectomy to mitigate infection risks, yet adherence in Poland is poorly understood.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess vaccination rates and patient knowledge regarding immunizations among splenectomized individuals in Poland.
• To identify gaps in patient education and physician practices concerning post-splenectomy vaccination protocols.

Main Methods:

• A questionnaire-based survey was conducted with 85 adult patients who underwent splenectomy between 2009-2010.
• Data were supplemented by reviewing medical files and immunization certificates, with additional phone follow-ups.

Main Results:

• Low vaccination coverage was observed for Streptococcus pneumoniae (20%), Haemophilus influenzae b (9.4%), and Neisseria meningitidis C (3.5%).
• Hepatitis B vaccination coverage was higher at 67%.
• A significant majority (69.4%) reported insufficient pre-splenectomy immunization information, and only 30.6% received any capsular bacteria immunization before surgery.

Conclusions:

• Most splenectomized patients in Poland are under-immunized against encapsulated bacteria and lack adequate knowledge of infection risks.
• Enhanced patient-physician communication regarding recommended immunizations and prophylactic antibiotics is essential post-splenectomy.