The PPMD team was recently joined by three clinical experts, Dr. Anne Pham-Huy (Pediatric Infectious Diseases Specialist, Clinical Immunologist, and Chair of Immunize Canada), Dr. Jane Taylor (Pediatric Pulmonologist at UPMC Children’s Hospital of Pittsburgh), and Dr. Susan Matesanz (Neuromuscular Neurologist and Medical Director of Clinical In Vivo Gene Therapy at Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia) for a discussion on vaccines and vaccination considerations in individuals with dystrophinopathy.
The webinar detailed three main topics:
Vaccine Overview by Dr. Anne Pham-Huy
- Vaccines are one of the most effective ways to prevent serious illness and protect overall health in individuals with dystrophinopathy.
- Vaccines train the immune system to recognize and respond to infections, reducing the risk of severe symptoms or complications.
- There are different vaccine types and guidance for individuals on chronic steroids, including:
- The importance of proper vaccine timing
- Ensuring all household members stay up to date on their vaccinations
Respiratory Health by Dr. Jane Taylor
- Vaccines play a key role in protecting lung health.
- Muscle weakness can make it harder to clear mucus and fight infections, increasing the risks from respiratory illnesses.
- The following vaccines to help prevent serious respiratory complications:
- Annual flu vaccine
- COVID-19 vaccine
- RSV vaccine
- Pneumococcal vaccines
Steroids and the Immune System by Dr. Susan Matesanz
- When someone is considered immunosuppressed while taking steroids:
- Those on weekend-only or intermittent doses are not considered immunosuppressed.
- Both vaccines and gene therapy activate the immune system, so:
- Vaccines should be avoided for about four weeks before gene therapy.
- Post-gene therapy vaccine timing should be discussed with the medical team.
- Staying current on routine vaccines is also important for clinical trial eligibility.
For additional information on vaccines, pulmonary and emergency care, please visit PPMD’s website.
Watch the Recording
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