Myasthenia Gravis During a Pandemic

In this episode we will discuss Myasthenia Gravis, an Autoimmune Disease affecting the neuromuscular system of the body with Tasha White. We spoke with Tasha a few years back and wanted to touch base and see how she is doing in the midst of the pandemic.

Tasha White, Director of a new Non-profit organization called "My Walk with MG" located in St. Louis, MO.

The CDC has announced authorization of an additional COVID-19 vaccine dose for people with compromised immune systems, including patients with myasthenia gravis (MG) taking immunosuppressive treatment(s). This recommendation is specifically for patients that completed the mRNA vaccines (Moderna and Pfizer). The recommendation does not apply to the Johnson & Johnson vaccine because available data are insufficient at this time.

Recent data suggests that patients with weakened immune systems, such as those on immune suppressing medication(s), may have a reduced protective immune response to the COVID-19 vaccine. An additional vaccine dose can increase the immune response to the vaccine. Although similar data specifically for patients with MG is lacking, given the currently available information, the widespread increase in the more contagious and severe delta variant, and the good safety profile of available SARS-coV2 vaccines, the potential benefit of the additional vaccine outweigh the risks. Therefore, the MGFA supports the CDC authorization of SARS-coV2 vaccines for patients with compromised immune systems and recommends that patients with MG taking immunosuppressives discuss getting an additional mRNA vaccine dose with their treating provider. SARS-coV2 vaccines may not be available in all areas. The MGFA continues to strongly support the use of recommended precautions to reduce the risk of getting a COVID infection (e.g., masking, social distancing, frequent handwashing, avoiding close interactions with non-immunized individuals, etc).

**Regardless of whether you are vaccinated, if you get a COVID infection, it is very important to immediately notify your treating provider(s), including your MG provider, to determine whether there should be changes to your treatment, such as a monoclonal antibody treatment.

We continue to recommend that you reference the CDC site.

https://www.cdc.gov/vaccines/covid-19/clinical-considerations/covid-19-vaccines-us.html