Vaccination Considerations for Patients with Inflammatory Bowel Disease

Immunosuppressive therapies, including corticosteroids, immunomodulators and biologic agents, are commonly used for the treatment for inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). These therapies have the unintended consequence of increasing the risk of infections, some of which can be prevented with appropriate vaccinations. However, these prophylactic vaccinations are underutilized in adults with IBD. In general, standard vaccination guidelines should be followed in patients with IBD. However, live vaccines should be avoided while patients are immunosuppressed. We will review the knowledge gaps among healthcare providers and specific vaccine guidelines, with additional precautions for travel, household contacts and healthcare providers.