Published 12/5/23, 5:31pm

The Mitochondrial Medicine Society (MMS) issued the following statement regarding vaccinations this winter:

The changing seasons bring the risk of respiratory seasonal illnesses in our mitochondrial disease patients. Some patients are at higher risk than others of more serious illness related to Flu, RSV and COVID-19 viruses.

Now more than ever, it is crucial for our mitochondrial disease families to take proactive measures to protect their loved ones who might be more vulnerable.

The Mitochondrial Medicine Society continues to strongly recommend that patients with mitochondrial diseases be vaccinated with the Flu, RSV and COVID-19 vaccines as well as COVID-19 boosters as needed.

These illnesses can have severe consequences for individuals with mitochondrial diseases that outweigh any potential risks of vaccination.

Speak to your health care provider about which vaccine might be most appropriate for your age group and remember, vaccination remains the most effective tool to prevent infections and its complications.