Responding to such epidemic challenges is very difficult both organizationally and financially. The result is evaluated over time with well-organized epidemiological surveillance. According to the approved polio outbreak response plan, which arose in early October 2021, it was only possible to start the 1st round of the campaign on February 1, 2022. It was supposed to last 3 weeks and was aimed at vaccinating 140,000 children from 6 months of age with IPV. up to 6 years who missed vaccination according to the Calendar. Almost by the end of the 3rd week of the 1st round, as of February 18, 2022, only 28% of the planned number of children were vaccinated. Therefore, we decided to extend the 1st round for an additional 2 weeks, which again was not performed due to the outbreak of war. Thus, there was no actual response to polio outbreaks.
The use of thiopurine (azathioprine and mercaptopurine) reduces the immune response to viruses, which is associated with an increased risk of opportunistic infections. There is limited evidence that they increase the risk of respiratory infections.
The risks and benefits should be considered, but most patients can continue on a stable dose. In patients in stable remission, elderly patients and in the presence of concomitant pathology, it is recommended to stop taking thiopurine.
During a pandemic, it is recommended to avoid starting thiopurine or increasing the dose, which will allow patients to avoid potential side effects.
If the patient is in contact with a COVID-19 person, temporary withdrawal of thiopurine for 2 weeks should be considered.
If a patient tests positive for SARS-CoV-2 and/or develops COVID-19, temporary discontinuation of thiopurine may be recommended until the patient clears the infection.
If a patient tests positive for SARS-CoV-2 and/or develops COVID-19, discontinuation of biologics should be considered until the patient clears the infection.
JAK inhibitors (tofacitinib and others) selectively affect the intracellular JAK/STAT signaling system, which mediates the action of many cytokines involved in the pathogenesis of ulcerative colitis. Unlike genetically engineered biological drugs, inhibition
