People who suffer lupus must seriously consider the vaccination against diseases such as influenza and pneumococcusaccording to a specialist from the National Institute of Medical Sciences and Nutrition “Salvador Zubirán” (INCMNSZ).
This recommendation is especially relevant for those who are under treatment with immunosuppressants, since these medications, essential to control the disease, also They weaken the immune system, increasing susceptibility to serious infections.
Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), a chronic autoimmune disease, predominantly affects women of reproductive age, accounting for 90% of cases. Its appearance is linked to genetic factors and hormonal alterations. This disorder of the immune system causes the body to attack its own tissues, requiring aggressive treatment with immunosuppressants to keep symptoms under control.
Vaccination: A necessary shield
Treatment with immunosuppressants is a double-edged sword. While these medications are crucial for reducing inflammation and preventing organ damage, they also leave patients more vulnerable to infections. Therefore, vaccination with inactivated (non-living) biologicals becomes an essential preventive strategy. Vaccines against seasonal influenza and pneumococcus are highly recommended, as well as those against hepatitis A and B, tetanus, diphtheria, human papillomavirus, meningococcus and shingles.
However, it is crucial that vaccination is carried out at least two weeks before starting treatment with immunosuppressants. This maximizes the patient’s immune response, providing more robust protection against possible infections. Besides, Not all vaccines are suitable for people with lupus. Live attenuated vaccines, such as chickenpox and MMR (measles, rubella, and mumps), are contraindicated due to the high risk of these infections progressing to severe forms in individuals with a compromised immune system.
In addition to vaccination, a series of preventive measures are recommended to minimize the risk of infections in people with lupus. These include frequent hand washing or the use of alcohol gel, annual dental check-ups, use of face masks in closed spaces and with large concentrations of people, and avoiding contact with individuals sick with the flu.
Challenges of diagnosing and managing lupus
Lupus is a complex disease that is difficult to diagnose due to the diversity and gradual appearance of its symptoms, which can include headache, joint inflammation, mouth ulcers, extreme fatigue and sensitivity to the sun. There is no definitive cure for lupus, so treatment focuses on controlling the disease to prevent relapses and allow a good quality of life.
The management of lupus requires continuous treatment with drugs prescribed by rheumatology specialists, whose objective is to regulate the immune system and reduce inflammation. This treatment can help patients maintain a relatively normal life, as long as they strictly adhere to the medical regimen.
A crucial aspect that the specialist highlights is the importance of avoiding self-medication. Patients with lupus should follow medical instructions and not take medications without professional supervision, as this could aggravate their condition or interfere with their treatment.
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