Herpes Zoster Reactivation Observed After mRNA-1273 COVID-19 Vaccination in Patients with Rheumatic Conditions

Recent observational data suggests that some patients with rheumatic diseases may experience reactivation of herpes zoster (HZ) after receiving the Moderna COVID-19 vaccine (mRNA-1273). A study conducted at a rheumatology clinic in Taiwan collected adverse event data on this patient population, offering valuable insight into potential vaccine-related risks for those with immune dysregulation.

Study Overview: Herpes Zoster Reactivation and COVID-19 Vaccination

This retrospective study analyzed data from 265 patients with rheumatic conditions, including Sjogren’s syndrome, rheumatoid arthritis, and systemic lupus erythematosus, who received at least one dose of a COVID-19 vaccine between July and September 2021. Among these patients, 66.3% received the Moderna vaccine, while 33.7% received the AstraZeneca vaccine. The study recorded cases of HZ reactivation among patients vaccinated with mRNA-1273, according to an overview of the research.

Why It Matters: Vaccine Safety in Immunocompromised Populations

These observations contribute to understanding the risk profile of COVID-19 vaccines in patients with rheumatic diseases, who may have heightened risks of adverse reactions due to immune dysregulation or immunomodulatory therapies. Awareness of potential risks, such as HZ reactivation, could guide future studies on vaccine safety in immunocompromised individuals and inform vaccine monitoring efforts within this vulnerable population.