What is the role of virus vaccination in patients with asthma?
It is estimated that viruses play a role in 30% to 80% of asthma exacerbations. Thus, virus vaccination in patients with asthma could play an important role in preventing asthma exacerbations and other complications. Influenza is the only agent for which a routine vaccine is currently available. This article discusses whether influenza vaccination in patients with asthma, based on the available evidence, is justified. Cost-effectiveness of (influenza) vaccination for patients with asthma is questionable. For the other major viruses involved, the present state of affairs is described. Although progress is being made, a vaccine may be available in the near future only for respiratory syncytial virus (RSV). Meanwhile, clinicians and patients should aim for an optimal treatment with the currently available asthma medication.
Bueving
Herman J
HJ
Erasmus MC-University Medical Center Rotterdam, Department of General Practice, Dr. Molewaterplein 50, 3015 GE Rotterdam, PO Box 2040, 3000 CA Rotterdam, The Netherlands. h.bueving@erasmusmc.nl
van der Wouden
Johannes C
JC
D001249:Asthma / Q000209:etiology / Q000517:prevention & control*; D003362:Cost-Benefit Analysis; D006801:Humans; D007252:Influenza Vaccines / Q000276:immunology; D014611:Vaccination / Q000191:economics; D014765:Viral Vaccines / Q000276:immunology*
D007252:Influenza Vaccines; D014765:Viral Vaccines