GRIFOLS meeting RMN: Pulmonologist Dr. Apprich recommends Prevenar for pneumonia
Author
Herbert Rude, as published in Alpha1 Journal 2/2018
Dr. Max Apprich from the Alpha-1 Center Worms recommends the relatively new pneumococcal vaccine Prevenar. "The new vaccine is significantly better than the previous one," the pulmonologist said at a patient event organized by Grifols in Mainz, which was also attended by many members of the Rhein-Main-Nahe self-help group.
„"Prevenar offers significant advantages over the traditional vaccine Pneumovax," said the pulmonologist. It is likely that the immune system's memory is stimulated so effectively that it not only works better but also only requires a single vaccination in a lifetime. In contrast, a booster shot is recommended every six years for Pneumovax. Undesirable side effects also appear to be less frequent with Prevenar. "Prevenar is more effective, and the vaccination reactions are less severe," the doctor said.
However, Prevenar also has a disadvantage: While Pneumovax is effective against 23 pneumococcal strains, Prevenar only provides immunity against 13 variants. "But these are clearly the more common ones," said the pulmonologist. Alpha-1 patients might want to discuss with their specialists and general practitioners whether they should be vaccinated with both medications.
In addition, the pulmonologist recommends the flu vaccine and the daily intake of vitamin C, vitamin D3, and magnesium: "Magnesium relieves the respiratory muscles, and the vitamins help prevent colds," he said. Should exacerbations occur, patients should treat them with antibiotics and, if necessary, cortisone.
Herbert Rude, as published in Alpha1 Journal 2/2018.
