Evidence clear for vaccinating people with Parkinson’s but caution advised in frail elderly, experts say – Clinical Daily News – McKnight’s Long Term…

A COVID-19 vaccination should be recommended to people with Parkinsons disease with caution reserved for very frail residents of long-term care settings, according to a new commentary published in the Journal of Parkinsons Disease.

Patients and their physicians have expressed concern about vaccine efficacy and safety in people with Parkinsons, especially in the context of Parkinsons treatment. Following a research review and considering data from vaccinations to date, an international panel of neurologists has concluded that the overall risks of contracting COVID-19 for people with Parkinsons far outweigh the potential risks of vaccination, at least in cases of advanced disease, wrote lead author Stella M. Papa, M.D., of Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta.

But the jury is still out on the risks to the frail elderly with Parkinsons due to lack of data, Papa and colleagues wrote. A cautious approach may be best in this population while more evidence is gathered, and it is important to openly discuss possible risks with patients and families prior to vaccination, they contend. Limited life expectancy also should be considered in these cases, they added.

Additional conclusions:

The authors encouraged clinicians to periodically refer to the website of the International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society for updated recommendations as new data are published.

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Evidence clear for vaccinating people with Parkinson's but caution advised in frail elderly, experts say - Clinical Daily News - McKnight's Long Term...