CFS and flu shot?

Hi Charcey,

I had the flu shot about 6 years ago for the 1st time. Big mistake! It took hold within 20 mins to the point I couldn’t walk & caused a major relapse. Never again for me. Although everybody doesn’t experience the same, I’ve heard of others having it with no adverse reactions. I guess we don’t know till we try it how we will react. If I hadn’t have tried it I’d have always wondered if it would have worked, so don’t beat yourself up for trying to look after yourself. Take it easy, rest up & allow it to pass.

I started having 'flu jabs in 2001, having gone down with severe 'flu (3+ months off work) followed by "post viral debility" as it was then termed, at the beginning of that year. MY GP recommended it and I really didn't want a repeat, so I went for it. In 2007 I developed CFS, but continued to have the 'flu jabs without any ill effects (providing I was at my best when I had the injection) until this year, when it sent me backwards for a time. I gather that, because the injection was not that effective amongst over 65s last year they included some kind of "immune booster" in this year vaccine and I am wondering whether that has mess with my delicate immune system. I know of others who have been affected, also, so I will be much more cautious next year.

Trouble is it is rock v. hard place. Do I not have it and risk getting 'flu, which itself could set me back, or do I risk it again, with the possible set back? Mind you, even with the jab last year I did go down with 'flu, but feel it was not as bad as "normal" 'flu, and I did recover reasonably well, so maybe the jab helped to reduce the symptoms? Who knows! Such a tricky decision.I think I will speak to my GP about it all next year - mind you I doubt whether they will help, as so many have little knowledge and even less understanding of ME.

Sorry, but of a rambling reply! I'd be interested to hear if others have had a similar reaction or have any ideas.

I made the huge mistake of having my first ever flu jab 3 months ago. I've had cfs for roughly 30 years and have had countless ups and downs during that time.

The last 3 months since the jab have been amongst the very worst I've ever experienced. Maybe even the worst - I'm beginning to think this is never going to ease off.

Hope you're doing better since your jab.

Hi Charcey,

I had the flu shot some years back and it unfortunately caused a relapse. So I'll never have it again. I did recover in time though but it was back to resting and symptoms again.

I know someone with Trigeminal Nuralgia and it caused their symptoms to worsen for a while too. So the vaccine must do something to the nervous system.

I realise you posted this sometime ago so I hope you're feeling better now........

Thank you all for your replies. It took a few months after the shot, but I recovered. Hopefully, those of you dealing with this will recover quicker. Best wishes to you all!