In this episode of "Ask the Expert," Dr. Eoin Flanagan joined Dr. GG deFiebre of SRNA. Dr. Flanagan explained how immunosuppressive medications impact the immune system and the efficacy of vaccines [00:02:45]. He discussed the primary concerns and risks of vaccinating individuals on these therapies, including avoiding live vaccines and the need for additional booster doses [00:04:52]. Dr. Flanagan also talked about the recommended vaccines for those with conditions like NMOSD or MOGAD, and underlined the importance of getting vaccinated to prevent severe infections [00:09:40]. He addressed common misconceptions and emphasized the role of healthcare providers in educating and supporting their patients regarding vaccinations [00:15:32].

Eoin Flanagan, MB, BCh is a Professor of Neurology and Consultant in the departments of Neurology and Laboratory Medicine and Pathology at the Mayo Clinic (Rochester, MN). He completed his medical school training at University College Dublin in Ireland in 2005. He did a medical residency in Ireland and then completed neurology residency, fellowships in neuroimmunology and a masters in clinical and translational science at Mayo Clinic (Rochester, MN). He works in the Autoimmune Neurology and Multiple Sclerosis Clinics and the Neuroimmunology Laboratory at the Mayo Clinic. His clinical expertise and research are focused on inflammatory myelopathies and their imaging patterns, myelin oligodendrocyte glycoprotein (MOG) antibody associated disorder, neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorders, autoimmune encephalitis, paraneoplastic neurologic disorders, and multiple sclerosis. He is principal investigator on an NIH RO1 grant studying MOG antibody associated disorder.

00:00 Introduction

00:47 Understanding Immunosuppressants and Vaccines

01:28 Primary Concerns with Vaccinating Immunosuppressed Patients

02:30 Recommended Vaccines for Immunosuppressed Patients

07:11 Timing and Effectiveness of Vaccinations

08:21 Measuring Vaccine Response

09:24 Addressing Missed Doses and Safety Considerations

16:41 Public Health Implications and Patient Advocacy

17:56 Advice for Vaccine-Hesitant Patients

19:06 Healthcare Providers' Role in Vaccination

20:03 Conclusion and Final Thoughts