COVID19 and TTP – Vaccine

Prof. Marie Scully
University College Hospital, London

COVID 19 vaccination and TTP The COVID 19 vaccine is being rolled out and over the next few weeks/months everyone will be called.

The majority of patients should have it when offered-currently there are 2 doses.

There are a few considerations for patients with TTP:

1. Recent rituximab-within the last 6 months. There is no contraindication as such to the vaccine, but because rituximab lowers the lymphocytes producing antibodies, the vaccine is not likely to be effective in producing antibodies as per the normal response. Note: having rituximab does not increase the chance of getting COVID 19. Therefore, check the CD19 levels when you attend your clinic visit. Once the CD19 levels are increasing, the vaccine will be effective
2. On long term immunosuppressive treatment such as steroids, mycophenolate, azathioprine. Contact your TTP centre but it is generally fine to proceed with the vaccine. If there are any concerns your medical team will advise and checking COIVD19 antibody levels may be possible
3. Congenital TTP-Most patients in the UK are receiving prophylactic treatment. This will ensure added protection from a relapse, which is not common.