VACCINATION AGAINST SARS-COV-2 IN PATIENTS WITH PSYCHIATRIC DISEASES

ABSTRACT

Some studies suggest an association between the higher predisposition to COVID-19 and psychiatric illnesses. Still, other study groups found such an association only in patients with additional risk factors for severe infection, such as obesity. On the other hand, a wide range of severe psychiatric symptoms may occur in patients with COVID-19, even after complete recovery. Therefore, the current medical consensus recommends that patients suffering from psychiatric illnesses be prioritized for vaccination against COVID-19. Moreover, these patients often have concomitant immune system alterations, which puts them at risk for serious SARS-CoV-2 infection. Therefore, particular attention should be paid to specific therapy for these patients. In addition, the different groups of psychotropic medicines could affect the immune response after vaccination against SARS-CoV-2 and their overall physical health. At this stage, it cannot be argued that there is an increased risk of adverse reactions following COVID-19 vaccination in patients receiving psychopharmacotherapy. However, it is unknown to what extent people taking psychotropic drugs develop an excellent immune response and protection after vaccination against SARS-CoV-2, so further research is needed. © 2022, Bulgarian Psychiatric Association (BPA). All rights reserved.