IgG4ward! Good Question Series: Staying Protected Against Respiratory Viruses—What Vaccines Do I Need?
In our Good Question Series, we explore common patient and caregiver concerns about IgG4-RD, providing brief but authoritative answers—easy to access and easy to use. This post discusses the importance of staying protected against respiratory viruses and outlines recommended vaccines for those who are immunocompromised or at higher risk. We also share where to find vaccine guidelines to help you stay informed.
Good Question:
With so many respiratory viruses circulating, I’m concerned about keeping myself/my loved one protected, especially since they are immunocompromised. What vaccines should we be getting, and how often, to stay as safe as possible?
Dr. Camille Kotton's answer:
It’s never too late to recommend respiratory viral vaccines. For people who are immunocompromised, they should be getting the COVID-19 vaccine every six months. Everyone should have an influenza vaccine, which is especially important this year due to the severity of the flu season. Additionally, everyone 60 and over with a condition considered a risk factor for RSV — as well as everyone 75 and older, should have the RSV vaccine.
Camille Kotton, MD Infectious Disease Specialist Clinical Director, Transplant and Immunocompromised Host Infectious Diseases Mass General Brigham Endowed Cancer Chair IV
For more information access our downloadable PDF with IgG4ward's vaccine guidelines. You may also visit our Resources section which includes additional helpful downloads and resources.
For official vaccine guidelines, visit the CDC’s website.
Thank you to our sponsor for supporting patient education through our Good Question Series:
