The COVID-19 vaccines are currently recommended for people with rare neuroimmunological diseases such as neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder (NMOSD), MOG-antibody disease (MOGAD), and transverse myelitis. However, the safety profile of the vaccines in this population is uncertain.
To report real-world safety data of the COVID-19 vaccines in persons with rare neuroimmunological diseases.
An anonymous survey was distributed to patients recruited on social media. Participants answered general demographic and disease-related questions, and specific questions about their experiences with the COVID-19 vaccines.
438 participants completed the questionnaire. The median age was 51 (range 18-82 years); 366 were female (83.6%); 102 (23.3%) had associated comorbidities, and 354 (80.1%) were treated with immunotherapies. 242 participants (55.3%) reported a diagnosis of NMOSD; 99 (22.6%) had MOGAD; 79 (18%) had transverse myelitis. 239 participants (66.2%) were younger than 55 years of age. 138 participants (31.5%) reported earlyadverse events. Of these, 93 (67.4%) were 55 years old (p=0.0086). The most common adverse events were local reactions, including pain, redness, and swelling at the injection site, reported by 155 participants (35.4%). 73 participants (16.7%) reported new or worsening neurological symptoms following the vaccination. Most symptoms occurred within the first week after vaccination and resolved within three days.
This survey indicates an overall favorable safety and tolerability profile of the COVID-19 vaccines among persons with rare neuroimmunological diseases. Longer-term studies are warranted to confirm these data.

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