I have pneumonia
 

I was diagnosed with pneumonia this past thursday, was given a medrol pack, antibiotics and cough medicine with codeine. I am feeling somewhat better but still coughing. My question is I had a pneumonia vaccine about 9 years ago, now I am told I should have one every 5 years. Also I am scheduled for my flu shot Tuesday, Will I still be able to get it?

Sorry to hear you are feeling crummy. Pneumonia not only makes you feel awful - it can be dangerous!

Anyway, I'd call and ask your doc about the advisability of the flu shot. If it were me, I might be inclined to postpone for a week or 10 days til your body has gotten a bit stronger.

Take care,
Sue

I'm so sorry you have pneumonia. It's so hard on MG. If your breathing gets worse, please go in.

From what I know, it's not advisable to get the flu shot or pneumovax while you are sick. Mrs. D would probably know for sure.

I hope you'll feel better soon!

Annie

I had a pneumovax shot just a year ago and it sent me back to the beginning of my MG...and presently I haven't completely recovered from the relapse.
So, for me the conclusion is: stay away from shots!
Maurice.

does the myasthenia lower my immunity to infections?
 

Does the myasthenia lower my immunity to all infections? I can't believ I got pneumonia as quick as I did, I started coughing on a Sunday and by wednesday I was diagnosed with pneumonia., is this going to be an example of me getting sick with everything.? It is hard where I work to avoid germs that people have., any suggestions., i wash my hands constantly , drink alot of fluids etc.

Yeah of course this disease weakens your immune system. It is an AUTO immune disease. Especially if you are on Prednisone, imuran, cellcept, etc because those immunosuppressants lower your ability to fight infections even more.

If you are on steroids or immunosuppressants, you will not make antibodies properly with vaccines. Might as well forget them.

I am not on steriods, the only thing I take is mestinon.

The medrol dospak may block response to a vaccine.