Immunity against SARS-CoV-2 in immune-suppressed patients: increased risk of insufficient immunological memory or sufficient protection against re- infection - a Target to B! substudy

It is not yet clear in healthy people how long they are protected against the SARS-CoV-2 virus after an infection and/or vaccination. In patients with an autoimmune disease, the uncertainty about the degree of protection and duration of protection is even greater. They generally use immunosuppressive (immunosuppressive) medication (ISM). This research focuses on the effectiveness of COVID-19 vaccination in this patient group and examines whether specific immunity to SARS-CoV-2 decreases over time in relation to the underlying autoimmune disease and the medication used. Goal The aim of this study is to investigate whether COVID-19 vaccination sufficiently protects patients with an autoimmune disease against a COVID-19 infection. Background Patients with autoimmune diseases often use immunosuppressive medications (ISM). It is unclear whether the COVID-19 vaccinations are equally effective in this group of patients and under what circumstances effective protection may be insufficient. Research design In this national study, the vaccination responses of patients with different ISM are compared with the responses of patients without ISM and healthy subjects. Most participants collect blood at home with a finger prick set and complete questionnaires about the course of their disease and side effects. The amount of antibodies against the virus is measured in the blood sent. The underlying mechanisms are studied in detail in a smaller group of patients. Expected results Determine whether ISM plays a role in the effectiveness of the vaccination and to what extent, depending on the type of ISM. The researchers also hope to determine whether the vaccinations are completely safe. These results will be used to provide advice on the need for repeat vaccinations.