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Flu vaccine - to have or not to have

Posted , 5 users are following.

Barbara_B
Barbara_B

 Its that time of year again and gp practices are starting to round us up for this years flu vaccine.  I would be grateful for any information on the efficacy of the vaccine while taking pred.

Thanks

1 like, 8 replies

8 Replies

  • Nefret
    Nefret Barbara_B

    Posted

    The flu vaccine is a 'dead' one - it's the live vaccines we need to avoid while on steroids.  I've been having a flu jab for the last 20 years - long before I was put on steroids and I've had no problems with the two together.
    • Barbara_B
      Barbara_B Nefret

      Posted

      Thanks for that. Do you know if we are able to build up the same level of immunity as when we are not taking steroids?
    • Nefret
      Nefret Barbara_B

      Posted

      I've never noticed any difference at all,  I don't think the benefit of the jab is made any less for being on steroids.
    • EileenH
      EileenH Barbara_B

      Posted

      There are some vaccines where the formation of antibodies is compromised by the pred and I suppose if we have a dodgy immune system it may not work properly anyway. I had my jab last year for only the second time - I wasn't considered at risk in the UK - and my husband who didn't got the flu badly and then developed pneumonia whilst I avoided the flu despite being in such close contact. He hadn't had his jab as he had bronchitis at the time - he says he's never going without a flu jab again! Of course the flu jab is always playing catch-up as viruses mutate and new ones appear after the mix for the vaccine is determined - but it does cover most of the viruses in circulation and whether you have full antibody development or not, it will provide a modicum of protection. Less severe flu is also a positive.
  • marykay62062
    marykay62062 Barbara_B

    Posted

    My Doc said it is just a little less effective but be sure to have it done. Shingles shot is a no no however.
  • somersetsue
    somersetsue Barbara_B

    Posted

    I can't be sure but the one year I gave in and had the flu jab I got alopecia, my neuro said that anything that starts an immune response has the potential to start the body attacking self in those prone to it. I have 3 auto immune diseases, MS, alopecia and now GCA. For the past 6 years I've taken Ainsworths homeopathic cold & flu tablets, so far so good, they too make a new strain each year for the expected flu strain of that year. Have just ordered this years supply smile
  • bedilia
    bedilia Barbara_B

    Posted

    Barbara, not getting the "flu vaccine" can put you at higfher risk of a case of the flu turning into something like pneumonia or worse yet, a real respiratiry crisis!

    Christine

  • Barbara_B
    Barbara_B

    Posted

    Thanks to all for the information. I will be having the flu jab.
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