Choosing the Right COVID-19 Vaccine for Individuals with Antibody Issues

COVID-19 vaccine

I have some questions regarding COVID-19 vaccination.
In the past, when I was around 20 years old, I received the hepatitis B vaccine but did not develop antibodies.
Last year, after a company health check, someone suggested that I get vaccinated again.
At the age of 33, I received three doses of the hepatitis B vaccine but still did not produce antibodies.
The doctor mentioned that I have a condition that prevents me from generating antibodies and advised me not to get vaccinated again.
Given my inability to produce antibodies from the hepatitis B vaccine, which type of COVID-19 vaccine would be more suitable for someone like me in the future?

a, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2021/07/13

Dr. Gao Jiankai reply Internal Medicine

Hello, thank you for your message.
The reasons for not producing antibodies after receiving the hepatitis B vaccine include whether the recipient has other chronic illnesses and factors related to individual constitution (gene expression).
Research on the ability to produce effective antibodies after receiving the COVID-19 vaccine is still ongoing, and it should not be related to your current inability to produce antibodies for the hepatitis B vaccine.
Currently, there is no comparison between different vaccines.
Therefore, as long as you have the opportunity to receive the COVID-19 vaccine, you can receive any vaccine that the government has arranged.
This is from the Allergy, Immunology, and Rheumatology Department of Changhua Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare, caring for you.

Reply Date: 2021/07/13

More Info

When considering COVID-19 vaccination for individuals who have previously shown an inability to produce antibodies in response to vaccines, such as the hepatitis B vaccine, it is essential to take a comprehensive approach. Your history of not developing antibodies after vaccination raises important questions about your immune response and how it may affect your response to COVID-19 vaccines.

Understanding Vaccine Response
Vaccines work by stimulating the immune system to recognize and fight off pathogens. In your case, the lack of antibody production after the hepatitis B vaccine suggests that your immune system may not respond typically to certain vaccines. This could be due to various factors, including genetic predispositions, underlying health conditions, or immune system deficiencies.

COVID-19 Vaccine Options
1. mRNA Vaccines (Pfizer-BioNTech and Moderna): These vaccines have shown high efficacy rates and are generally well-tolerated. They work by using messenger RNA to instruct cells to produce a harmless piece of the spike protein found on the surface of the SARS-CoV-2 virus, prompting an immune response. However, if you have a history of not producing antibodies, it is uncertain how effective these vaccines will be for you.

2. Viral Vector Vaccines (Johnson & Johnson, AstraZeneca): These vaccines use a different approach by using a harmless virus to deliver genetic material that codes for the spike protein. Similar to mRNA vaccines, they aim to elicit an immune response. Again, the effectiveness may vary based on your immune response capabilities.

3. Protein Subunit Vaccines: These vaccines contain harmless pieces of the virus (proteins) instead of the whole germ. They may be a suitable option for individuals with specific immune response issues, as they tend to have a more straightforward mechanism of action and may elicit a different type of immune response.

Recommendations for Your Situation
Given your unique situation, here are some recommendations:
1. Consult with an Immunologist: It would be beneficial to consult with an immunologist or a healthcare provider specializing in immune disorders. They can conduct further tests to understand your immune system better and provide personalized advice on vaccination.

2. Consider Alternative Vaccines: If traditional vaccines do not seem effective for you, discuss with your healthcare provider the possibility of trying different types of vaccines, such as protein subunit vaccines, which might elicit a response in individuals who do not respond well to mRNA or viral vector vaccines.

3. Monitor Your Health: Regular health check-ups and monitoring of your immune status can help in assessing how your body responds to any vaccinations you receive. This is especially important if you have underlying health conditions.

4. Stay Informed: Keep abreast of the latest research and recommendations regarding COVID-19 vaccines. As new vaccines and booster options become available, there may be alternatives that are more suited to your immune profile.

5. Consider Additional Precautions: Regardless of vaccination status, continue to practice preventive measures such as wearing masks in crowded places, maintaining social distancing, and practicing good hygiene to reduce the risk of COVID-19 infection.

Conclusion
In summary, while your history of not producing antibodies after vaccinations raises concerns about your response to COVID-19 vaccines, there are still options available. Consulting with a specialist will provide you with tailored advice based on your immune system's capabilities. Staying informed and proactive about your health will be crucial as you navigate your vaccination options.

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