8 February 2021
Canadian PNH Network Position Statement on COVID-19 Vaccination
Disclaimer:
The recommendations expressed herein are general guidelines based on the available data at the time of writing.
Application of these statements must be adapted to individual patients. The Canadian PNH Network assumes no
responsibility or liability arising from error or omission, nor from the use of any information contained herein.
This
document should not serve as an alternative to specific medical advice from a physician or other treating healthcare
practitioner.
As COVID-19 vaccinations become available across Canada, patients with PNH and/or aplastic anemia (AA) will become
eligible to receive them. Though the clinical trials performed did not include patients with PNH or AA, it is the
position of the Canadian PNH Network that our patients receive the vaccination when invited unless there are specific
reasons they are unable to do so. This is our position both for patients on specific treatments for PNH (e.g.
eculizumab) and for those who are not.
After each vaccination, there is a small risk that symptoms of PNH may temporarily worsen (e.g. dark urine, abdominal
pain, fatigue). If this happens, it would be important for patients to notify their hematologists.
The vaccines currently available are given as an intramuscular needle. Injections into the muscle can be associated
with
bleeding, so patients who have low platelet counts (<30 x 109/L) should consult with their doctors before being
vaccinated.
Patients who are taking blood thinners are encouraged to get vaccinated. There may be a small risk of bruising or
bleeding at the injection site; however, putting pressure on the area for 3-5 minutes after the injection should
help to
minimize that risk.
If patients with AA who have received ATG within the last 6 months, vaccine response may be reduced, and patients
should
discuss this with their hematologist in advance of vaccination.
Regardless of vaccination status, it is important that everyone continue to follow the general practices of
masking,
hand hygiene, and physical distancing.
If patients are diagnosed with COVID-19, it is important that they notify their treating hematologist to discuss
their
condition and continuation of treatment for their PNH/AA.
We are still early into the vaccination program in Canada, and our guidance may change as we learn more about the
reactions experienced in the general population. Updated information, should it be required, will be posted here.
For
general information about the vaccination program in Canada, please view the following link:
https://www.canada.ca/en/public-health/services/diseases/coronavirus-disease-covid-19/vaccines.html
