The organizers of the 23rd German Liver Day recommend that older people and patients with immunodeficiency or serious previous illnesses protect themselves against infection with the corona virus, for example by further vaccination with the adapted vaccines. This also applies to liver disease and liver transplant recipients. “Members of risk groups should consult their family doctor or the treating specialist and discuss the individual situation. In general, patients with chronic liver diseases should continue to pay particular attention to the recommended hygiene and distance rules in the future,” recommends Prof. Dr. Michael P. Manns, Chairman of the Board of the German Liver Foundation, and adds his vaccination recommendation for liver disease and liver transplant recipients on immunosuppressive therapy: “In addition, to protect against other infections in this risk group, the vaccination status should be updated regularly. For example, vaccinations against hepatitis A and B, shingles, vaccination against pneumococci, which can cause pneumonia, and annual vaccination against flu (influenza) are recommended for patients with liver cirrhosis and liver transplant recipients.”
In the 21st update of the COVID-19 vaccination recommendation published on August 18, 2022, the Standing Vaccination Committee (STIKO) continues to count chronic liver diseases, including liver cirrhosis and congenital or acquired immune deficiency or immunosuppression – for example after a liver transplant with immunosuppressive therapy – among the diseases who are at increased risk of severe COVID-19 progression. There are no liver diseases that speak against vaccination. In fact, vaccination is all the more important the further the liver disease has progressed. This is proven by the safety data collected and evaluated – nationally and internationally. The clearly proven benefit of the vaccines clearly outweighs the very rare risks. In April 2022, the EMA also gave the all-clear for the time being regarding autoimmune hepatitis (AIH): New AIH diagnoses are not seen more frequently after COVID vaccinations than before and a causal connection could not be established.
“With the motto: ‘totally central: the liver!’ this year’s German Liver Day emphasizes the importance of the central metabolic organ for the human body. When the liver is weakened by a disease, it is especially important to get vaccinated not only against COVID-19 but also against other dangerous infections to prevent serious infections – even during the pandemic. In addition, especially in times of COVID-19, to strengthen liver health and general well-being, a nutritious diet and sufficient exercise should be aimed at,” says Prof. Manns.
More information on the 23rd German Liver Day and all press releases published so far as part of this year’s German Liver Day at: www.lebertag.org
All institutions that would like to educate and inform with an event as part of the 23rd German Liver Day are supported by the organizers in press work and with event materials. Information, registrations and downloads at: www.lebertag.org
The organizers of the 23rd German Liver Day on November 20th, 2022:
German Society for Combating Diseases
of the stomach, intestines and liver as well as disorders of the
Metabolism and nutrition (gastro league) e. V
Prof. Dr. Peter R. Galle, Member of the Scientific Advisory Board
Friedrich-List-Strasse 13, 35398 Gießen
Tel 0641 – 97 48 10
[email protected] | www.gastro-liga.de