Vaccination in multiple sclerosis patients during the COVID-19 pandemic

Abstract

Vaccination is the best strategy for preventing most infectious diseases. Along with adhering to the principles of prevention, vaccines are particularly important in the time of the COVID-19 pandemic. There is evidence that multiple sclerosis increases the risk of developing infections, and the immunosuppressive and immunomodulating medications taken by multiple sclerosis patients may increase this risk. No evidence has been found that vaccination increases the risk of developing MS or a relapse. It is believed that people with multiple sclerosis can be vaccinated safely, and it is a mistake not to have a vaccination only because of being diagnosed with multiple sclerosis. When determining the indications for vaccination, as well as when selecting vaccines and determining the optimal time for their administration, the epidemiological situation of the patient’s region of residence and the type of disease-modifying therapy should be taken into account. The vaccination-related restrictions mainly apply to alemtuzumab, fingolimod, ocrelizumab and cladribine. The article reviews the rules for vaccinating multiple sclerosis patients depending on the type of vaccine and the disease-modifying therapy used. Recommendations for vaccination against the SARS-CoV-2 infection in multiple sclerosis patients are also taken into account.