Pneumococcal vaccine uptake in patients with inflammatory arthritis: a single centre cohort study

Abstract

Introduction Current guidelines recommend pneumococcal vaccination in individuals who are over the age of 65 or are immunosuppressed due to a disease or treatment. The objective of this study was to assess vaccine uptake rates in people with inflammatory arthritis for the pneumococcal, influenza and Covid-19 vaccines and factors determining uptake. Methods We conducted a retrospective single centre cohort study in the UK of individuals with rheumatoid arthritis, psoriatic arthritis and axial spondylarthritis between October and December 2023. Data were collected for age, gender, co-morbidities, immunosuppressive therapies, and dates of vaccines. Logistic regression was used to evaluate predictors of vaccine uptake, with adjustments for demographic and clinical factors. Results 906 individuals were identified. 46% were receiving treatment with csDMARD, 26% on biologic monotherapy, and 23% were on both biologic and csDMARDs. 316 individuals (35%) received a pneumococcal vaccine, lower than uptake for influenza (63%) and Covid-19 (87%) vaccines. Predictors of pneumococcal vaccine uptake included age, with older patients more likely to be vaccinated (odds ratio [OR] for age ≥ 65 years: 1.67, 95% CI 1.21–2.29). Those on biological therapy demonstrated higher likelihood of vaccination (OR for biologic therapy: 1.81, 95% CI 1.33–2.47). Additional Joint committee for immunisation and vaccination (JCVI) Green Book indicators also positively influenced vaccine uptake (OR: 1.67, 95% CI 1.19–2.33). Conclusion Pneumococcal vaccine uptake in inflammatory rheumatic diseases is low, especially in younger patients and those not on biological therapy. The study highlights the need for a focused approach, distinct from strategies for other vaccines, to address this public health challenge.