European Committee for Treatment and Research in Multiple Sclerosis and European Academy of Neurology consensus on vaccination in people with multiple sclerosis: Improving immunization strategies in the era of highly active immunotherapeutic drugs

Abstract

Background and purpose With the new highly active drugs available for people with multiple sclerosis (pwMS), vaccination becomes an essential part of the risk management strategy. We aimed to develop a European evidence-based consensus for the vaccination strategy of pwMS who are candidates for disease-modifying therapies (DMTs).

Methods This work was conducted by a multidisciplinary working group using formal consensus methodology. Clinical questions (defined as population, interventions and outcomes) considered all authorized DMTs and vaccines. A systematic literature search was conducted and quality of evidence was defined according to the Oxford Centre for Evidence-Based Medicine Levels of Evidence. The recommendations were formulated based on the quality of evidence and the risk–benefit balance.

Results Seven questions, encompassing vaccine safety, vaccine effectiveness, global vaccination strategy and vaccination in subpopulations (pediatric, pregnant women, elderly and international travelers) were considered. A narrative description of the evidence considering published studies, guidelines and position statements is presented. A total of 53 recommendations were agreed by the working group after three rounds of consensus.

Conclusion This first European consensus on vaccination in pwMS proposes the best vaccination strategy according to current evidence and expert knowledge, with the goal of homogenizing the immunization practices in pwMS.