Can Patients with Sjögren's Syndrome Safely Receive Moderna COVID Vaccine?

Can patients with systemic dryness syndrome receive the Moderna COVID-19 vaccine?

Hello, my mother is 74 years old and has Sjögren's syndrome with systemic dryness, rheumatoid arthritis, blepharospasm, arrhythmia, hypertension, chronic heart failure, irritable bowel syndrome, and gastroesophageal reflux disease.
She also has a 7 cm cyst on her liver and a 3 cm cyst on her ovary, both of which are being treated.
Given the severity of the pandemic, is it appropriate for my mother to receive the Moderna vaccine? Although all vaccines carry risks and I have consulted her primary physician, I would like to hear the doctor's opinion.
My mother lives alone and goes to the market to buy groceries, so she really needs the vaccine.
Thank you, doctor.

Li Jiajia, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2021/07/05

Dr. Gao Jiankai reply Internal Medicine

Hello, thank you for your message.
Based on the condition of the elderly lady you described, I believe she can receive the Moderna vaccine.
However, please pay attention to the medications she is taking; some drugs for rheumatoid arthritis should be temporarily discontinued after vaccination to avoid affecting the vaccine's efficacy.
Please remember to discuss this with your mother's attending physician.
Best regards from the Allergy, Immunology, and Rheumatology Department of Changhua Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare.

Reply Date: 2021/07/05

More Info

Patients with Sjögren's Syndrome (SS), a chronic autoimmune condition characterized by dry eyes and mouth, can generally receive the Moderna COVID-19 vaccine, but there are several important considerations to keep in mind. Given your mother's complex medical history, including her age and multiple health conditions, it's crucial to approach this decision with careful consideration and consultation with her healthcare providers.

Safety of the Moderna Vaccine for Sjögren's Syndrome Patients
1. General Vaccine Guidelines: The Moderna COVID-19 vaccine has been authorized for emergency use and is generally considered safe for most individuals, including those with autoimmune diseases like Sjögren's Syndrome. The vaccine works by prompting the immune system to recognize and fight the SARS-CoV-2 virus, which causes COVID-19.
2. Autoimmune Conditions: Patients with autoimmune diseases may have concerns about how their condition could affect their response to the vaccine or how the vaccine might affect their autoimmune condition. However, current evidence suggests that individuals with autoimmune conditions, including Sjögren's Syndrome, can safely receive the vaccine. In fact, vaccination is recommended to protect against severe illness from COVID-19, which can be particularly dangerous for individuals with underlying health issues.

3. Monitoring and Side Effects: After receiving the vaccine, patients may experience common side effects such as pain at the injection site, fatigue, headache, muscle pain, fever, and chills. These side effects are typically mild to moderate and resolve within a few days. Given your mother's existing health conditions, it may be beneficial for her to have someone monitor her for any unusual reactions post-vaccination.

4. Consulting Healthcare Providers: It is essential for your mother to discuss her specific health conditions with her healthcare provider before vaccination. Her doctor can provide personalized advice based on her overall health status, current medications, and any potential interactions. For instance, if she is on immunosuppressive therapy, her doctor may have specific recommendations regarding the timing of the vaccine.

5. Consideration of Comorbidities: Your mother has several comorbidities, including hypertension, chronic heart failure, and other conditions. These factors may increase her risk for severe COVID-19, making vaccination even more critical. The benefits of vaccination in preventing severe illness and hospitalization generally outweigh the risks associated with the vaccine.

6. Post-Vaccination Care: After vaccination, it is advisable for your mother to continue following public health guidelines, including wearing masks and practicing social distancing, especially if she is in a high-risk category.
7. Emergency Use Authorization (EUA): The Moderna vaccine has undergone rigorous testing and has been granted Emergency Use Authorization by health authorities, which indicates that its benefits in preventing COVID-19 outweigh the risks of potential side effects.

Conclusion
In summary, your mother, despite her Sjögren's Syndrome and other health conditions, is likely to benefit from receiving the Moderna COVID-19 vaccine. It is essential to have a thorough discussion with her healthcare provider to address any specific concerns and to ensure that she is monitored appropriately during and after the vaccination process. Vaccination is a crucial step in protecting her health, especially given the ongoing risks associated with COVID-19.

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