Ab1692-Pare Adherence Study to Herpes Zoster Vaccination in Patients With Immune-Mediated Rheumatic Diseases Treated With Jak Inhibitors - Patient Perspectives

Background: Biologic therapies have represented a significant progress in the treatment and prognosis of patients with immune-mediated rheumatic diseases (IMRD), with their primary adverse effect being an increased risk of serious infections. Various tools, including vaccines, have been developed for infection prevention in this patient population; however, suboptimal adherence to vaccination is well-known. Objectives: To assess adherence to recombinant herpes zoster vaccination in patients with IMRD undergoing treatment with JAK inhibitors (iJAK), identify reasons for non-vaccination, and evaluate patient satisfaction following vaccination. Methods: Retrospective and descriptive study, approved by the Regional Ethics Committee of the Community of Madrid, involving telephone interviews with all iJAK patients offered vaccination in the past two years. The interviews investigated herpes zoster vaccination, satisfaction levels, and reasons for non-vaccination if applicable. Results: 68 patients were included, with 75% (50) being women, and nine (13.2%) having a history of herpes zoster (HZ). Of the participants, 63 (92.6%) received both prescribed vaccine doses, two (2.9%) received a single dose, and three (4.4%) did not get vaccinated, primarily due to not perceiving themselves as at-risk patients. The three patients who declined vaccination had a diagnosis of rheumatoid arthritis and no history of HZ. Following vaccination, 50 (78.1%) patients felt more protected, while other opinions ranged from no discernible difference to fear of adverse effects. No patient regretted being vaccinated. Conclusion: Adherence to the recommended two doses of recombinant herpes zoster vaccine in patients with immune-mediated rheumatic diseases has been high, with the majority reporting a high level of satisfaction. Effective communication between healthcare professionals and patients plays a crucial role in vaccination adherence. REFERENCES: [1] Alnaimat F, Sweis JJG, Jansz J, Modi Z, Prasad S, AbuHelal A, Vagts C, Hanson HA, Ascoli C, Novak RM, et al. Vaccination in the Era of Immunosuppression. Vaccines. 2023; 11(9):1446. Acknowledgements: We would like to thank to the participants who willingly contributed to this research, and to our colleagues for their support and collaboration. Disclosure of Interests: None declared.