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Transplant COVID Vaccination — ESENeph MCQ

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EasyTransplantationTransplant COVID VaccinationESENeph

A 48-year-old man with a kidney transplant 6 months ago on standard triple immunosuppression (Tacrolimus, MMF, Prednisolone) has an eGFR of 55 mL/min/1.73m2 and stable function. He asks about COVID-19 vaccination. What is the recommendation?

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Correct answer: E — COVID-19 vaccination is strongly recommended; response may be blunted by immunosuppression

COVID-19 vaccination is strongly recommended for all kidney transplant recipients. However, the immune response is significantly blunted by immunosuppressive medications (particularly MMF and Tacrolimus). KDIGO and UKKA recommend additional/booster doses for transplant recipients. Timing should generally avoid the first 1-3 months post-transplant when immunosuppression is heaviest. mRNA vaccines (Pfizer, Moderna) and inactivated vaccines are safe; live vaccines are contraindicated in immunosuppressed patients.

Reference: KDIGO 2009 – Transplant Guideline (Vaccination chapter); UKKA 2023 – COVID Vaccination