Vaccination in Adult Patients with Rheumatic Diseases: A Practical Guide for Canadian Rheumatology Practice

Résumé

Vaccination remains one of the most effective interventions to reduce morbidity and mortality in patients with rheumatic and musculoskeletal diseases. Individuals with autoimmune inflammatory rheumatic diseases face an increased risk of infection due to both immune dysregulation and immunosuppressive therapy.

This article summarizes current recommendations on the vaccination of patients with rheumatic diseases put forth by the National Advisory Committee on Immunization (NACI). NACI is a national advisory committee that develops recommendations for the use of vaccines in Canada. These recommendations are reviewed and implemented by provincial and territorial public health authorities; thus, publicly funded schedules may differ between jurisdictions. It is recommended that all practitioners review their local guidelines prior to administration of vaccines.

In addition, this article incorporates recommendations from the Canadian Rheumatology Association and American College of Rheumatology where they align with NACI guidance.