The medical leadership team at the Alpha-1 Foundation has provided an updated Statement for the Alpha-1 Antitrypsin Deficiency Community: Understanding the New COVID-19 Vaccine Framework.
Statement for the Alpha-1 Antitrypsin Deficiency Community: Understanding the New COVID-19 Vaccine Framework
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has updated its COVID-19 vaccine framework. Under the new guidance, updated COVID-19 vaccines are authorized only for individuals aged 65 and older and for those under 65 with specific high-risk chronic conditions.
This change may impact individuals with Alpha-1 Antitrypsin Deficiency—particularly those with lung disease—by limiting access to updated COVID-19 vaccines unless they meet the revised eligibility criteria. Alpha-1 can lead to chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and other serious lung diseases. Individuals who suffer from Alpha-1 are at risk of developing a deterioration in lung function after an infection. Protective mechanisms which include vaccination are critical for patients with Alpha-1 and therefore the COVID-19 vaccine should be made available for patients who suffer from Alpha-1.
Key Points for the Alpha-1 Community:
• Risk of Severe Illness: Individuals with Alpha-1-related lung disease remain at elevated risk for severe outcomes from COVID-19 infection.
• Importance of Broader Immunity: High community vaccination rates remain important to reduce overall transmission and protect vulnerable populations.
What Patients, Caregivers, and Families Can Do:
1. Talk to Your Healthcare Provider: Ask whether you are eligible for an updated COVID-19 vaccine under the new criteria and what other preventive options may be available.
2. Monitor Guidance: Stay informed by visiting Alpha1.org for updates on public health recommendations relevant to Alpha-1 lung disease.
3. Support Expanded Access: Speak with your care team or consider reaching out to policymakers to advocate for vaccine policies that account for the needs of those living with rare genetic lung diseases.
4. Use Additional Precautions: Continue following safety practices such as mask-wearing in high-risk settings, and avoiding crowded indoor spaces.
The Alpha-1 Foundation remains dedicated to supporting the health and well-being of individuals with Alpha-1 through education, advocacy, and research. While public health guidance continues to evolve, our commitment to protecting our community remains unchanged.
For additional information and resources, visit:
Alpha-1 Foundation
