Shingles Vaccine and Psoriasis: Is There a Connection?

The lichen vaccine (eg, Varicella zoster zoster) is not directly associated with development or exacerbation of psoriasis. However, there is an indirect relationship through the immune response and the state of the immune system.

Why a connection might occur

Exacerbation of psoriasis after vaccination. Some studies suggest that certain vaccines (eg, against influenza, BCG, tetanus, diphtheria, pneumococcus) may trigger or exacerbate psoriasis in susceptible people. The mechanism involves activation of immune cells (helper T cells 1 and 17), which may trigger or enhance an autoimmune process. However, such cases are rare, and not all vaccines have this effect.

Reaction to live vaccines. If a person with psoriasis is receiving immunosuppressive therapy (such as biologicals), live vaccines may be contraindicated or require special precaution because of the risk that the weakened organism will multiply

Important nuances

Psoriasis is not a contraindication to vaccination. However, vaccination should be given during remission rather than during an exacerbation.
Risk of flare-ups. Even if a vaccine is given in remission, how the body will respond to the vaccine cannot be predicted with certainty. Most people who have psoriasis get vaccinated without complications, but some people have flare-ups.
Lack of direct communication with lichen. Because there is no specific vaccine for many lichen species (eg, for herpes zoster), the effect of this vaccine on psoriasis is generally unquestioned.

Because the vaccine affects body defenses and psoriasis is an autoimmune disease, to avoid triggering relapses, patients are advised to read the following:

• Allergic reactions can be prevented by using one series of vaccines for the entire course of immunization.
• To avoid the consequences of vaccination, vaccination should be carried out during remission (at least one week after the
• plaque disappears).
• Vaccination is given with adequate supportive care given the severity of the disease.
• Days before and a few days after vaccination, people are advised to take antihistamines for psoriasis to reduce the risk of
• allergic reactions.
• It is advisable to vaccinate in the morning, as in the evening, the person changes the functional state of the organs.
• Fighting the disease agent can weaken the body's defenses, so reducing contact with others is recommended to avoid
• infectious diseases in people with psoriasis.

What to do

Before any vaccination, especially if you have chronic diseases, it is important to consult a doctor - dermatologist or therapist. The specialist will assess the state of health, the stage of psoriasis and possible risks. In some cases, temporary adjustments to therapy may be necessary.

Thus, there is no direct or proven relationship between the lichen vaccine and psoriasis. But due to the influence on the immune system and individual characteristics of the body, the decision to vaccinate is always made individually.