Thread: Flu shots??
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Old 09-25-2010, 10:03 AM
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Mere Mere is offline
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Location: A Beautiful Town in Maryland
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Mere Mere is offline
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Join Date: Jul 2008
Location: A Beautiful Town in Maryland
Posts: 425
15 yr Member
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It is my understanding that if you have ever had or have any type of autoimmune activity (such as Gullian-Barre), past or present, you should avoid any vaccines if possible. There is a mixed view on this issue as some vaccines are comprised of semi-live media and some are not. Based on my reading, many experts feel that receiving a vaccine that is comprised of dead media is fine. I would think that in the case of neuropathy, the neurologist would offer the best answer.

However, according to my Rheumatologist, should you take any drugs that compromise your immunity such as prednisone, methotrexate, TnF -bolckers (Humira, Embril, etc), absolutely DO NOT receive any type of vaccine. EVER.

I have not received a flu shot for four years, when I started Humira TnF blocker and periodic prednisone for my ankylosing spondylitis. It is an arthritic autoimmune disease. And even though my immunity is compromised, I do not get sick very often. Statistically, less than before I was on Humira. A lot of it comes down to common sense - just being aware. I wash my hands very often, and use hand cleaners when I am out. I avoid sick people (if it is apparent), I wipe down exercise equipment BEFORE and AFTER at the gym and I keep my hands away from my face. Also, my husband does get a flu shot and if he gets sick, he stays away. Appears to help, so far...

Mere
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"Thanks for this!" says:
MelodyL (09-25-2010), mrsD (09-25-2010), smae (09-25-2010)