Vaccination
- Vaccination is the best way to protect yourself, and others around you, from COVID-19.
- All patients with AIRD should have the COVID-19 vaccine.
- Many patients with AIRD are recommended to have a 3rd primary vaccine dose.
- All patients with AIRD should have booster doses after the 3rd primary dose OR, if not eligible for the 3rd primary dose, after the 2nd primary dose. A second booster is recommended 3 months after the 1st booster or COVID-19 infection.
- A third booster dose (“the 2023 Booster”) is now recommended for some people 6 months after their previous booster dose or most recent COVID-19 infection-whichever was most recent.
- This will mean that some people with rheumatic diseases will be up to their 6th COVID-19 vaccine dose ie. a primary course of 3 doses, original booster, 2022 winter booster and the 2023 booster dose.
- for more information on the COVID-19 vaccine and the third booster dose and who should have it, please refer to the ARA Covid-19 Vaccination information sheet here.
- It is reassuring to note that evidence has shown that patients with Rheumatic disease are likely to experience mild, Flu-like symptoms from COVID-19, when vaccinations are up to date. Patients being treated with Rituximab and cyclophosphamides may be an exception to this and should discuss their individual circumstances with their rheumatologist.
Other things you can do to reduce your risk
- Wear a mask (preferably N95), ensure it is worn correctly and in appropriate or mandated situations.
- Wearing eye protection (glasses) has been shown to reduce the risk of contracting COVID-19 by 15%.
- Regular hand washing and good personal hygiene practices continue to be vital.
- Maintain social distancing especially indoors and avoid crowded or indoor venues.
- Shop online if possible.
- Work from home where you can. If you cannot work from home, optimise physical distancing and hygiene measures in the workplace.
- If you are on rituximab or cyclophosphamide, you should contact your rheumatologist to see if you are eligible for an additional antibody treatment that may improve your immunity to COVID-19.