Impfempfehlungen bei Immunsupprimierten

Vaccination of immunosuppressed patients poses a unique challenge in medical practice, as this group is at increased risk for severe infections due to their compromised immune system. Various factors, including autoimmune diseases, organ transplants, hematologic malignancies, and specific therapies such as biologics and targeted cancer therapies, can lead to immunosuppression. While inactivated vaccines are generally safe, their immunogenicity in immunosuppressed patients is often reduced, necessitating careful monitoring of vaccine efficacy. Live vaccines, however, are contraindicated in severe immunosuppression due to the risk of vaccine-induced infection. The Austrian Vaccination Plan 2023/2024, along with recommendations from STIKO (German Standing Committee on Vaccination) and other specialized societies, provides clear guidelines for vaccinating these high-risk patients. This includes adjusting vaccination strategies based on the severity of immunosuppression, the nature of the underlying condition, and the specific needs of the patient. The importance of titer monitoring to ensure adequate immune response is particularly emphasized for patients already undergoing immunosuppressive therapy. Through early and individualized vaccination planning and interdisciplinary collaboration, the risk of severe infections can be reduced, thereby improving health outcomes for this patient group.