Vaccinations for Asthma Exacerbation Patients Prior to Discharge

Pneumococcal Vaccination - Primary Recommendation

• The American Heart Association recommends that all asthma patients should receive pneumococcal vaccination before discharge, as asthma is specifically identified as a high-risk condition warranting vaccination at any age 1
• The 23-valent pneumococcal polysaccharide vaccine is recommended for adults with asthma, not just those ≥65 years of age, according to the American Heart Association 1
• Immunocompromised asthma patients should receive both the 13-valent conjugate vaccine and the 23-valent polysaccharide vaccine, as recommended by the American Heart Association 1

Influenza Vaccination Considerations

• The American Academy of Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology suggests that the timing of influenza vaccination during an acute exacerbation hospitalization should be considered based on clinical stability 2

Critical Discharge Considerations

• The American Academy of Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology recommends that vaccination should not delay discharge if the patient meets other clinical stability criteria, such as a peak expiratory flow (PEF) greater than 70% predicted, minimal symptoms, and stable on discharge medications for 24 hours 2
• Ensure the patient has been clinically stable and on discharge medications for at least 24 hours before considering vaccination and discharge, as recommended by the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology 3