Immunization in elite athletes: Recommendations endorsed by scientific associations

In September 2017 the Italian Hygiene, Preventive Medicine and Public Health Association (S.It.I) and the Italian Sports Medicine Federation (F.M.S.I.) drew up and approved guidelines concerning correct vaccination schedule for professional athletes (the so-called "elite athletes"). The purpose of this joint document is to provide physicians with useful and up-to-date information on vaccination practices in the various sport disciplines; the document takes into account the recommendations published in the National Vaccine Prevention Plan 2017-2019 (PNPV 2017-2019) and Law 119 issued on 31 st July 2017 which draws new immunization schedules. Recommendations may differ on the basis of scientific evidences, taking into account the type of sport (e.g. individual and team sports, combat sports, etc.), the sport venue and the specific athlete's profile (e.g. frequent international traveler). It has also been considered appropriate to briefy review all the reference regulations, as well as to offer advice for optimizing the vaccination practice, indicating possible temporary or permanent contraindications, the most appropriate timing for vaccination, and suggestions to minimize any possible postvaccinal side-effects.