RESEARCHERS have confirmed that the COVID-19 mRNA vaccination is safe and beneficial for Children and adults with sickle cell disease (SCD). This study was the largest prospective mRNA vaccine trial in patients with SCD, and the first safety and antibody response vaccine trial in very young children with SCD. The results of the study are important as children and adults with SCD have an increased risk of morbidity and mortality with COVID-19 infections.
The American Society of Hematology Research Collaborative Sickle Cell Disease Research Network performed a prospective COVID-19 vaccine study to assess antibody responses and adverse effects in 41 individuals with SCD, who received 2 doses of the Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine. Blood samples were collected before vaccination and two months after the initial dose to measure immunoglobulin G (IgG) reactivity against the receptor binding domain (RBD) of the SARS-CoV-2 spike protein. A follow-up analysis of IgG reactivity at six months post-vaccination was conducted in 37 participants. The results showed that 66% of participants were seropositive at baseline, likely due to prior COVID-19 exposure, and all previously seronegative participants became seropositive after vaccination. Postvaccination side effects, such as Vaso-occlusive pain within 2 to 3 days of first or second vaccination, were reported by 12% of participants, with 10% requiring medical care, but no severe adverse events necessitating hospitalization were observed, and there were no fevers that required inpatient admission.
In conclusion, the study indicates that mRNA vaccination offers a favorable risk-benefit profile for individuals with SCD, including young children. While mild to moderate side effects were common, the vaccine was effective in eliciting an immune response. These findings support the continued use of mRNA vaccines in clinical practice for patients with SCD. Given the severe complications that can arise from COVID-19 in this population, research should aim to further investigate potential adverse events in this patient population and continue to monitor any long-term concerns.
Katrina Thornber, EMJ
Reference
Anderson AR et al. COVID-19 mRNA vaccination responses in individuals with sickle cell disease: an ASH RC Sickle Cell Research Network Study. Blood Adv. 2024;8(17):4549-4553.
