Cross-sectional observational study shows low vaccine uptake in immunosuppressed IBD patients, highlighting uncertainty and need for better healthcare professional guidance.
Key Points
The study aims to assess vaccination adherence and barriers among immunosuppressed patients with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD).
Conducted a cross-sectional observational study using a paper-based survey
Surveyed 209 patients with IBD attending St Mark’s Hospital and Imperial College Healthcare NHS Trust
Collected data on demographics, vaccination history, and counselling
Analyzed adherence to vaccine recommendations using univariate and multivariate analyses
Only 22.2% of 194 patients on immunosuppressive therapy were fully vaccinated
Low uptake observed for pneumococcal (30.9%), COVID-19 booster (56.7%), and influenza (64.4%) vaccines
Health professional recommendations significantly improved vaccine uptake (OR=3.43)
Over 40% of patients reported inadequate pre-treatment counselling
Common barriers included uncertainty about necessity and safety concerns