COVID-19 Vaccine and Psoriasis

With so much going on with COVID-19, it still feels like this year will be much of the same as the last. However, with vaccines now available and heading out to each state, hopefully, we can all see things turn around.

Being immunocompromised

It is scary to know that with our immune systems being compromised COVID-19 is a very real danger to those living with psoriasis. Even now with the vaccines, it can still be very scary trying to decide if we should take the shot or not.

It worries me, honestly, so I am sure it worries most of you. Maybe it will help you to make an informed decision if I relay the information straight from the National Psoriasis Foundation (NPF).

Understanding NPF guoiidelines

On December 14, 2020, the NPF COVID-19 Task Force issued a statement which can be read here.

In summary, it states that the vaccine is safe and recommends everyone with psoriasis get the vaccine as soon as it is available to take. They even say that anyone on an oral or biologic treatment can continue those treatments while getting this vaccine. They also stated they will be continuing to monitor the situation and will make recommendations if needed.

This made me feel somewhat better about the vaccine. To know that the National Psoriasis Foundation put forth that statement shows that they really care about the people who are affected by psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis. At least it does to me.

Posing the question to social groups

I belong to three different social media groups focused on life with psoriasis. Being curious by nature, I wanted to know what others thought about the vaccine. Honestly, the replies were split right down the middle.

Some people were quick to say they would not get it at all. One of the key reasons for that was they felt the vaccine was made too fast. Others said they would get it as soon as they could. There were a few responses that the person said they would go off the advice of their doctor. If their doctor said yes, then they would say yes.

I posed this question before the NPF came out with their guidance so it makes me wonder if reading what the NPF suggested would change anyone's mind.

Will you get the vaccine?

I have to admit that talking to your primary doctor would be a really good suggestion. Seeing as your primary doctor is supposed to know everything about your medical condition, I would feel comfortable going by their recommendation as well.

Would you trust your doctor's recommendation on the vaccine? What do you think about the recommendation of the NPF on the vaccine? Does it make you feel better or are you still on the fence about getting the vaccine?

I am not writing this article to try to persuade anyone one way or the other. As I said I am inquisitive by nature. Let's have a discussion about the vaccine as we all have psoriasis in common. Maybe we can help each other through this time.