Can I Get mRNA Vaccines Like BNT with Heart Valve Insufficiency?

I have been diagnosed with heart valve insufficiency. Can I receive the BNT or other mRNA vaccines?

Due to company health screenings, I have been diagnosed with arrhythmia for two consecutive years and was required to undergo detailed examinations.
In addition to an echocardiogram, I also had a stress electrocardiogram.
Since I have a habit of exercising, the doctor informed me that my heart function is better than average.
However, I have seen news reports about the risk of myocarditis associated with mRNA vaccines.
I have been diagnosed with mitral valve insufficiency.
Can I receive the BNT (Pfizer-BioNTech) or other mRNA vaccines? Or does the doctor have any recommendations on which vaccine would be better for me?

LOUIS, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2021/08/27

Dr. Li Han reply Cardiology

Hello, based on your health check description, everything seems generally good.
Regarding the COVID-19 vaccines currently administered in Taiwan, there appear to be no contraindications.
The concerns about allergic reactions or myocarditis associated with mRNA vaccines are indeed rare.
The encouragement for vaccination is based on large data sets and existing evidence indicating that the benefits outweigh the risks.
The occurrence of serious adverse reactions to the vaccine is difficult to predict in advance.
Prior to vaccination, the evaluating physician will confirm some important considerations with you.
Additionally, to my knowledge, all vaccines available on the market have been administered to frontline healthcare workers with very few incidents reported.
I hope this information is helpful.
Take care, Ministry of Health and Welfare Changhua Hospital.

Reply Date: 2021/08/27

More Info

When considering vaccination with mRNA vaccines like BNT (Pfizer-BioNTech) for individuals with heart valve insufficiency, it is essential to evaluate both the benefits and potential risks associated with the vaccine. Heart valve insufficiency, also known as valvular regurgitation, can lead to various cardiovascular complications, but it does not automatically preclude vaccination.

Based on the information provided, your heart function appears to be relatively good, as indicated by your doctor after conducting tests such as echocardiograms and exercise electrocardiograms. This is a positive sign, as it suggests that your heart is functioning adequately despite the valve insufficiency. The concerns regarding mRNA vaccines, particularly the potential for myocarditis (inflammation of the heart muscle) and pericarditis (inflammation of the outer lining of the heart), have been noted in some reports, especially among younger males. However, these side effects are relatively rare and must be weighed against the significant benefits of vaccination, especially in the context of the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and other health authorities recommend that individuals with underlying health conditions, including heart conditions, receive the COVID-19 vaccine. The rationale is that the risk of severe illness, hospitalization, and death from COVID-19 far outweighs the potential risks associated with the vaccine. Moreover, the data available does not indicate that mRNA vaccines increase the risk of heart valve issues or exacerbate existing heart conditions.

If you are concerned about the specific risks associated with mRNA vaccines, it is advisable to have a detailed discussion with your healthcare provider. They can assess your individual health status, review your medical history, and provide personalized recommendations. In many cases, the benefits of vaccination—such as protection against COVID-19 and its complications—are deemed to outweigh the risks.

In terms of vaccine choice, both BNT and Moderna (another mRNA vaccine) have similar safety profiles and efficacy rates. The side effects reported for both vaccines are generally mild to moderate, including soreness at the injection site, fatigue, headache, and mild fever. Serious side effects, such as myocarditis, are rare and typically occur in younger males after the second dose.

In conclusion, if you have heart valve insufficiency but your overall heart function is good, you are likely a candidate for mRNA vaccination. It is crucial to consult with your healthcare provider to discuss your specific situation, address any concerns, and make an informed decision about vaccination. They may also recommend monitoring your heart condition closely post-vaccination to ensure your health remains stable. Ultimately, vaccination is a critical tool in protecting yourself and others from COVID-19, and it is essential to weigh the risks and benefits carefully.

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