MG and yellow fever vaccination....
 

Hello all!

I'm Stephen, 32 years old, and recently diagnosed with seronegative ocular myasthenia gravis. I see a consultant neuro-ophthalmologist. I experience fleeting double vision throughout the day, lasting approx. 30 mins at a time. I've had all the standard investigations for MG, all coming back negative, but due to double vision symptoms, they have settled with this working diagnosis.

I'm due to go travelling around South America at the beginning of November, for 5 months. The yellow fever vaccination is recommended for almost all of the locations I'll be in, yet frustratingly, it is contraindicated in MG. I've attempted to do some reading on this, but unable to find much, and want to know the risks of getting the vaccination (which would probably involve not disclosing my MG :/ ). The more I read about yellow fever the more terrifying it sounds!

From what I have read, nobody would recommend me having it, but at the same time they're saying I'm seronegative. So I'm left confused and anxious! :eek:

If anyone could shed any light on MG and the vaccination, whether they feel there's any chance I could safely have the jab, I would be hugely thankful!

BW,

Stephen.

Well, whether you are seronegative or not, the risk is the same. At this point you will have to weigh the risks or benefits of both the vaccine or the illness. How prevalent is yellow fever? How difficult is it to prevent contact with mosquitos? Will the time period you will be in SA coincide with less mosquito/yellow fever activity? Will you be out in the wild or staying urban? All of those factors must be weighed while you make your decision.

Good luck!

I have lived in SE Asia for decades. Never had one vaccine, nor will I. I wear protective clothing when outdoors, and use eucalyptus spray when mosi are most active. Will never take another "vaccine" again. Those that do take the vaccines, become ill here I observe. You make your own choices though, as I am not giving you medical advice, just my own experience.. Good Luck.