In a new study, people with lupus who received an additional COVID-19 vaccine dose or booster shot were significantly less likely to contract a subsequent SARS-CoV-2 infection also known as a breakthrough infection. An immediate increase in antibody levels also occurred when administered a booster even in people on immunosuppressive therapies who did not respond to the initial round of vaccination.

Researchers monitored 163 fully COVID-19 vaccinated men and women with lupus to see who developed the disease. Of the group, only 125 had received a booster shot. Of the 125 people with lupus who received a booster shot, only 22% developed COVID-19, while 42% of those who had not received a booster shot developed the disease.

The unlikely development of severe COVID-19 disease in vaccinated people with lupus after receiving a booster shot is reassuring. Talk to your healthcare provider about receiving a COVID-19 vaccination and/or booster, and continue to follow the Lupus Foundation of America for breaking news about lupus and the novel coronavirus and learn more about the COVID-19 vaccine and lupus.

Read the study