Guest guest Posted November 17, 2001 Report Share Posted November 17, 2001 Hi, I asked my transplant doctor about whether I should receive a flu shot. He said that with my condition (pre-transplant, meds not working), he doesn't want to put me on anything that might further affect my immune system. But that's just my special lil case...just ask your doctor before you get any shots. -Lia AIH 10/00 pre-transplant ILLINOIS > > Message: 5 > Date: Thu, 15 Nov 2001 15:17:49 -0000 > From: TerriMM@... > Subject: Flu Shot? > > Just curious, should AIH sufferers take the flu > shot? > > I usually do not get a flu shot as I seem to always > have a > reaction to anything " injected " . Had a bad reaction > many > years ago to the " swine flu " shot - also had a bad > reaction > to Kenalog - so I avoid shots as much as possible. > > But, I'm wondering with AIH, if getting the flu > would be > more dangerous. I will ask my doctor, but just > wanted to > hear what everyone else's experiences are. > > Also, I mentioned this before and some have answered > about > the email digest repeating messages. Is there > anyway to > contact and let them know - I can't find any > info on how to > directly contact them and let them know about this > problem. > > Hope everyone has a great day. > > Terri > NV __________________________________________________ Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted December 13, 2001 Report Share Posted December 13, 2001 Hi Madeline, You asked about Flu shots. My doctor recommended that I get one each year, perhaps because of my depressed immune system, or my age, 54, but I did it for the past 2 or 3 years, and have been successful each time. It was recommended that I not get the pneumonia vaccine, and I followed that advice too. Try to do what your doctor says. Each case is different. Hugs, a Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted December 14, 2001 Report Share Posted December 14, 2001 Hi All: Just to add my support: At my last visit to my LLMD he asked me if I had gotten a Flu Shot, and I said no - so he immediately went out of the room and came back with the shot and attacked my right shoulder promptly with the needle. He said: 'There - now you will be OK " .. I did feel added lyme-like symptoms for a few days - but nothing more than that. -GLEN At 01:01 AM 12/14/2001 -0500, you wrote: >Hi Madeline, > >You asked about Flu shots. >My doctor recommended that I get one each year, perhaps because of my >depressed immune system, or my age, 54, but I did it for the past 2 or 3 >years, and have been successful each time. >It was recommended that I not get the pneumonia vaccine, and I followed that >advice too. >Try to do what your doctor says. Each case is different. > >Hugs, a > > > Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted January 19, 2002 Report Share Posted January 19, 2002 Just fyi, flu shots still contain thimerosal, they are the last ones scheduled to be changed, because they are not *theoretically* used for infants. http://www.vaccinesafety.edu/thi-table.htm Dana Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted January 19, 2002 Report Share Posted January 19, 2002 > Just fyi, flu shots still contain thimerosal, they are the last ones > scheduled to be changed, because they are not *theoretically* used for > infants. > > http://www.vaccinesafety.edu/thi-table.htm > > Dana Thanks, Dana-- I was going to bring up this thimerosal issue. I *think* that it is ONLY the " required " childhood vaccines that must be made thimerosal free. But I'm not sure if I've got it right. Of course, I plan to steer clear of them! But, I should pay more attention so that I can tell other people...... thimerosal = preservative made with mercury. Moria Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted April 14, 2002 Report Share Posted April 14, 2002 Marti wrote: > but I don't believe shots are as benign as we are told they are. You're right, they aren't. Geoff soli Deo gloria http://www.healingyou.org/ NonRx herbals, homeopathics & supplements http://www.800-800-cruise.com/ Cruises, tours, resorts & luxury trains Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted April 30, 2002 Report Share Posted April 30, 2002 Sam, Mark wrote: > Here is what the CDC... Try this hyperlink and follow the various links therein for a more complete picture. You may also be interested in a book titled (I think) 'The Vaccine Question.' The CDC is and always has been less than forward about the statistical data on vaccines, from Polio to the " flu. " They are also less-than-forward about how the " flu vaccine " is for the " wrong flu strain " more than 1/3 of the time. http://www.whale.to/vaccines.html Like every other Government agency, the CDC follows the dictates of specific " policies " and rules regarding " public comment. " These policies carry stiff professional penalties for those who speak 'out of school' causing discord to that information released by the 'Public Relations Officer.' These links will direct you to statistical data and research not published to the public-at-large in favor of the particular USG plan du jour, which is *never* crafted in your favor but always in the favor of a particular policy, IMO of course. Geoff soli Deo gloria http://www.healingyou.org/ NonRx herbals, homeopathics & supplements http://www.800-800-cruise.com/ Cruises, tours, resorts & luxury trains Mark Wrote: Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted October 23, 2002 Report Share Posted October 23, 2002 Flu shots are widely available here in NYC. I asked about a flu shot last week during my rheumy appointment and was immediately given one. I am on 20 mgs of MTX. Kathy > I asked about it at my last visit about two weeks ago, and they said flu > shots would probably be available around the first of November. I've also > wondered if taking MTX or Remicade (which I'm supposed to start soon) > contraindicates getting a flu shot? I believe flu shots don't use live > viruses, so I would assume it would be Ok(?) Ron] > > > > Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted October 23, 2002 Report Share Posted October 23, 2002 [Moderator's note: Wow. Thanks for the heads-up . I for one will make a special note to ask for a flu shot next time I see my rheumy. I asked about it at my last visit about two weeks ago, and they said flu shots would probably be available around the first of November. I've also wondered if taking MTX or Remicade (which I'm supposed to start soon) contraindicates getting a flu shot? I believe flu shots don't use live viruses, so I would assume it would be Ok(?) Ron] That's a good question. I believe it isn't live, but just to be sure I'll check it out with one of our nurses tomorrow. Also, my understanding is that it isn't so much a question of whether or not it is contraindicated, but rather the timing of the doses of our meds and the vaccine. I'll ask about the Remicade and other meds that are often mentioned here and get back to you. I may even be able to get my hands on some info that I can email to anyone who is interested, so stay tuned! Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted October 23, 2002 Report Share Posted October 23, 2002 In a message dated 10/23/2002 7:32:55 AM Eastern Daylight Time, heather.watson@... writes: > . I believe it isn't live Flu shot issues always seem to come up this time of year. Yes, the virus is NOT live so you can't get the flu from having it. Sometimes people get sick after the shot and blame the shot, but I've been told it's really that they have picked up a germ before the shot became fully effective and that's why they got sick. Please ask your doc's for a flu shot - it's important if you have reduced immunities and all of us on DMARD's do. I also think a pneumonia shot might be good if you haven't had one ever - but, of course, ask your doctors. If your primary's office has a limited supply of flu vaccine, you should be top prioriety to get it because of your immune system issues. Hope everyone stays healthy this season Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted October 23, 2002 Report Share Posted October 23, 2002 Nope, it isn't live. You won't get the flu from it (I already knew that) but you may have mild to moderate flu symptoms afterwards and that is a normal reaction - somewhere between 6 to 24 hours after having it. It's important to report any adverse reactions other than those flu-like symptoms though as some people do have them. Also, it's far better to take the risk of having a couple of down days than it is to elect not to have it and get hit with a life threatening illness. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted October 23, 2002 Report Share Posted October 23, 2002 , Thank you for the flu shot information. I have been receiving the shot for about 15 years and since I was diagnosed with PA about 9 months ago, I was not sure if it was okay to get a flu shot when you are taking MTX. I called my rheumy and they are participating in the program; so tomorrow I will be shot. Thank goodness, I had the flu when I was a teenager and it was not fun. I don't even want to think about the complications at 52 years old and with PA. Take care. RE: [ ] Flu Shots Nope, it isn't live. You won't get the flu from it (I already knew that) but you may have mild to moderate flu symptoms afterwards and that is a normal reaction - somewhere between 6 to 24 hours after having it. It's important to report any adverse reactions other than those flu-like symptoms though as some people do have them. Also, it's far better to take the risk of having a couple of down days than it is to elect not to have it and get hit with a life threatening illness. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted October 25, 2002 Report Share Posted October 25, 2002 I probably should get the flu shot as well with all my ailments but I hate to put anything else into my body. I know they say it isn't possible but my husband was sicker than a dog when he got a flu shot years ago. I almost rather take my chances. Janine,OH > , > > Thank you for the flu shot information. I have been receiving the shot for about 15 years and since I was diagnosed with PA about 9 months ago, I was not sure if it was okay to get a flu shot when you are taking MTX. > > I called my rheumy and they are participating in the program; so tomorrow I will be shot. Thank goodness, I had the flu when I was a teenager and it was not fun. I don't even want to think about the complications at 52 years old and with PA. > > Take care. > > > > RE: [ ] Flu Shots > > > Nope, it isn't live. You won't get the flu from it (I already knew > that) but you may have mild to moderate flu symptoms afterwards and that > is a normal reaction - somewhere between 6 to 24 hours after having it. > It's important to report any adverse reactions other than those flu- like > symptoms though as some people do have them. Also, it's far better to > take the risk of having a couple of down days than it is to elect not to > have it and get hit with a life threatening illness. > > > > > > Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted October 25, 2002 Report Share Posted October 25, 2002 In a message dated 10/25/2002 1:13:34 PM Eastern Daylight Time, messerj1@... writes: > probably should get the flu shot as well with all my ailments but I > hate to put anything else into my body. I know they say it isn't > possible but my husband was sicker than a dog when he got a flu shot > years ago. I almost rather take my chances. > Janine - the problem with you not getting a flu shot is that if you do get the flu and your immune system is compromised from being on enbrel, remicade, MTX, etc. the flu could become a life threatening illness as your immune system can't fight it off. In my opinion, better safe than sorry. P.S. - be sure to tell your doc. all your meds. you are on before getting his/her advice as to whether you should have the shot. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted October 25, 2002 Report Share Posted October 25, 2002 Hi Janine, I am sorry about all of your ailments, but let me tell you if your resistance is not up to par, the flu can be a really bad thing. Please thing about it again. I understand the choice is up to you, but it seems the strains keep getting worse and worse or maybe I'm just getting older. Even with all of the bed rest and fluids, you could still be in trouble and I am sure most everyone will agree. What we have is not always understood by everyone so we have to do what we think is right for our own health and welfare. Take care and let me know how you are doing. I live in West Haven, Connecticut. RE: [ ] Flu Shots > > > Nope, it isn't live. You won't get the flu from it (I already knew > that) but you may have mild to moderate flu symptoms afterwards and that > is a normal reaction - somewhere between 6 to 24 hours after having it. > It's important to report any adverse reactions other than those flu- like > symptoms though as some people do have them. Also, it's far better to > take the risk of having a couple of down days than it is to elect not to > have it and get hit with a life threatening illness. > > > > > > Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted November 4, 2002 Report Share Posted November 4, 2002 Hi Alan & Jodi, Personally, I don't take the flu shots at all because they make me sick every time I tried one. If they don't bother you, I wouldn't get them unless you can get the ones that don't have mercury in them. You would have to ask your doctor about this. I do get bronchitis at times and I have found zithromax to be very effective for me to knock it out. On the plus side, I have found that being on AP has made my asthma a lot better. It took almost two years but it is significantly better. I have gone from having to use an inhaler at least 4 times a day, down to maybe 4 times a week, and now after almost 2 1/2 years on AP I hardly ever use it...even after exercising. I used to have a fairly severe case of asthma that has landed me in the emergency room from time to time. Now I don't worry about it any more. I hope that this will be the case for you too! I'm always amazed at how much better it is. I don't wake up in the middle of the night any more feeling like I can't get my breath. Jeanette Alan and Jodi Fadness wrote: > Is it recommended that we get flu shots? I have RA and SJS - postive for > Mycoplasma Fermentans and still have a high ASO Titer after 13 months on > AP. I received the flu shot for 7 years before I skipped it last year. > Didn't have any trouble last winter but am wondering - do I get it? I've > also got asthma and can be prone to bronchitis and all that - but I don't > want to jeapardize what I've got going with the AP. When I asked Doc > Sinnott about this when I first went to Iowa (it was the fall of 2001) he > said I could do either/or. > > Truth be known I just read a report on Drudge Report that has succeeded in > freaking me out a little. I know this is talking about stuff in Europe but > sheesh! > > http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/health/2388339.stm > > To unsubscribe, email: rheumatic-unsubscribeegroups > > > Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted November 4, 2002 Report Share Posted November 4, 2002 I never had flu shots for years when I just had RA but when I developed CFS and was getting everything going my GP recommended them. I don't know if I'll continue to have them though as I seem always to feel unwell for quite a while afterwards. My husband, at my request took a product called Buccaline Berna (sp?) as it was recommended by my cousin and for the first time, he had a cold and flu free winter. so I may try that next winter. It is inexpensive and can be bought over the counter and by all accounts - Works. It's an oral vaccine manufactured in Switzerland I think. Hugs, Maree. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted March 3, 2003 Report Share Posted March 3, 2003 We'll try this one more time - my fingers got a little to wild with the buttons! Dear Carole K. I have been having the flu shots for about 5 or 6 years, ever since my first auto immune disease was diagnosed. Now the liver team at the hospital insists on it. I've always done fine. Amy Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted December 14, 2003 Report Share Posted December 14, 2003 I think that, at least in some areas, second flu shots are not going to be an option. Minnesota will run out of vaccine this week..Apparently they can't make more without threatening next year's supply. Cathie Nicholl ---------- >From: jb50192@... >SLL-CLL-edu >Subject: Flu shots >Date: Sun, Dec 14, 2003, 7:18 AM > > I have been trying to determine the benefits of a second flu shot for us, a > month or two after the first one. As always, no two answers are the same. Two > oncologists have voted " no " , one pulmonary specialist says " yes " . Any inputs > from you people? > > Good health! > > Balan > > > Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted October 10, 2004 Report Share Posted October 10, 2004 I agree , for anyone that has had the flu, it is possibly one of the worst illnesses you can get. I was 24 when I got it, healthy, thin, and with more energy than a powerplant. I ended up trying to go back to work in one week only to pass out when I got there. I'm now 42 and would hate to see what effects it would have on me today! The flu shot is going to have no effect on colds or other viruses. If you qualify get it. It might save your life. Chris Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted October 13, 2004 Report Share Posted October 13, 2004 My PCP is doing the same thing, over 65 first. Try this site: http://www.findaflushot.com I found a place near me that is giving them out on Saturday, but they don't know if they will get it and the clinic could be cancelled. I am sure there will be long lines and I'm not sure if it's worth it. I mean, RA is an overactive immune system, and then the drugs supress it. So shouldn't I be back to the starting point immune system wise? Jennie > > > I called my family Dr. and aaked about the flu shot, they told me it > would be the fist week in November before they would be giving them > out. Also said that people 65 and older would be the first ones to get > them. This is in Arkansas. > > Beth Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted October 13, 2004 Report Share Posted October 13, 2004 My PCP is doing the same thing, over 65 first. Try this site: http://www.findaflushot.com I found a place near me that is giving them out on Saturday, but they don't know if they will get it and the clinic could be cancelled. I am sure there will be long lines and I'm not sure if it's worth it. I mean, RA is an overactive immune system, and then the drugs supress it. So shouldn't I be back to the starting point immune system wise? Jennie > > > I called my family Dr. and aaked about the flu shot, they told me it > would be the fist week in November before they would be giving them > out. Also said that people 65 and older would be the first ones to get > them. This is in Arkansas. > > Beth Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted October 13, 2004 Report Share Posted October 13, 2004 Yeah, I have a related question for anyone who knows. Does developing RA put you at that much higher risk of getting the flu? I never bother getting flu shots because I've only had the flu twice in my entire life (47 years). This will be my first flu season since my dx, though, so I'm wondering if I should make more effort to try to get one. > > > > > > I called my family Dr. and aaked about the flu shot, they told me it > > would be the fist week in November before they would be giving them > > out. Also said that people 65 and older would be the first ones to > get > > them. This is in Arkansas. > > > > Beth Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted October 13, 2004 Report Share Posted October 13, 2004 Yeah, I have a related question for anyone who knows. Does developing RA put you at that much higher risk of getting the flu? I never bother getting flu shots because I've only had the flu twice in my entire life (47 years). This will be my first flu season since my dx, though, so I'm wondering if I should make more effort to try to get one. > > > > > > I called my family Dr. and aaked about the flu shot, they told me it > > would be the fist week in November before they would be giving them > > out. Also said that people 65 and older would be the first ones to > get > > them. This is in Arkansas. > > > > Beth Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted October 13, 2004 Report Share Posted October 13, 2004 The drugs many of us take supress the immune system so we are at greater risk of develping flu. RA is an autoimmune disease that puts us in a risk category. Hugs, > > > Yeah, I have a related question for anyone who knows. Does > developing RA put you at that much higher risk of getting the flu? I > never bother getting flu shots because I've only had the flu twice in > my entire life (47 years). This will be my first flu season since my > dx, though, so I'm wondering if I should make more effort to try to > get one. > > > > > > > > > > > > > > I called my family Dr. and aaked about the flu shot, they told me > it > > > would be the fist week in November before they would be giving > them > > > out. Also said that people 65 and older would be the first ones > to > > get > > > them. This is in Arkansas. > > > > > > Beth > > > > > > > Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Recommended Posts
Join the conversation
You are posting as a guest. If you have an account, sign in now to post with your account.
Note: Your post will require moderator approval before it will be visible.