Uptake of influenza and swine flu vaccination in immunocompromised patients.

摘要

According to department ot health UK guidelines immunocompromised patients should be vaccinated against influenza infection1. Last year due to pandemic of influenza A (H1N1) virus, it was also recommended that people in the current seasonal flu risk group should also be vaccinated against swine flu infection2. There is evidence that the uptake of vaccination in immunocompromised patients is suboptimal, especially in those aged <65 years.We undertook an audit to establish influenza and swine flu vaccination uptake in rheumatology patients on immunosuppressive treatment and the reasons if patients had not received vaccination. We collected data from 110 patients using a questionnaire filled by patients during their out patient appointment. We found 94 patients were on DMARDs, 14 were on oral steroids, 01 on etanarcept and one did not document any medication. Most common DMARD was Methotrexate including combination therapy (n-60); other DMARDs used were sulphasalazine, hydroxychloroquine, Leflunamide, azathioprine, cyclosporine and mycophenolate in decreasing frequency.