Vaccination of stem cell transplant recipients: recommendations of the Infectious Diseases Working Party of the EBMT

Abstract

Summary:Over the last 25 years, the numbers of hematopoietic stem cell transplant (SCT) patients have increased rapidly. Infections have been major obstacles for successful transplantation. Thus, infection prevention is very important in transplant recipients. As the results of transplantation have improved, the number of long-term survivors has increased. Vaccination is a potentially important strategy for reducing the risk for vaccinepreventable infections after SCT. The EBMT produced recommendations for vaccination of SCT recipients published in Bone Marrow Transplantation in 1995. This paper updates the previous recommendations based on current knowledge. Bone Marrow Transplantation (2005) 35, 737-746.

Prophylaxis and treatment of GVHD: EBMT–ELN working group recommendations for a standardized practice

“…There are standards and guidelines for the indications of allogeneic and autologous HSCT, 6 for the use of donors, 7,8 for the prevention and treatment of infectious complications, [9][10][11] and for quality management. 12 The recommendations have yielded documented impacts and improved outcome.…”

Pretransplant vaccinations in allogeneic stem cell transplantation donors and recipients: an often-missed opportunity for immunoprotection?

“…16,38 Furthermore, a certain level of Ab in response to a vaccine presumes immunity but protection against disease cannot be confirmed. In addition, the timing of Ag exposure may not align with induction of immunity in such severely immunocompromised patients.…”

Patient and family education in HSCT: improving awareness of respiratory virus infection and influenza vaccination. A descriptive study and brief intervention

“…17 Influenza vaccination guidelines in Australia, 18 Europe 19 and the United States of America 20 recommend immunization for all household contacts and healthcare workers involved with HSCT recipients, with annual immunization recommended 6 months post-HSCT. [17][18][19][20] Separating HSCT recipients from symptomatic healthcare workers and visitors is also recommended. 20 There is scant evidence concerning awareness and uptake of preventive measures among HSCT patients or their families-even though these measures require their cooperation.…”