How soon after steroids can I have vaccines?

[bluecar15]

It's vaccine season!!! As long as nothing goes wrong I should be able to get my covid and flu jabs next week which tbh I'm thrilled about lol I LOVE getting vaccinated as respiratory infections are my worst asthma trigger so getting my jabs makes me feel a lot safer.

However. I've now been put on steroids due to a flare up. Obviously if i don't feel better I'll delay the vaccines but as long as the steroids DO do what we're hoping. Is there a certain number of days I need to be off them before getting a vaccine so they don't impact my immune system? It's a 5 day course and my appointment isn't till the end of the week but. I know I certainly wouldn't want to get vaccinated while still taking them so do I need to give my immune system a bit more than a few days to get past having taken them?

I'm just wondering if there's official guidance as when I ask they're a bit wishy washy with it and I'd prefer seeing something a bit more concrete

[Anselm198]

So many of us are on steroids all the time, the key is that you have recovered from any illness.

[bluecar15 in reply to Anselm198]

Ok cool yeah that's exactly what I was thinking in line with what I've asked them before. They definitely focus on how I'm feeling over what I'm taking steroid wise usually so I'll mention it but as long as I'm feeling OK I think I'll be good. I just didn't want to go to the appointment only to be turned away if there was specific guidance of like. Wait x weeks after steroids.

Thank you!

[Moomin21]

I'm on continuous steroids, my maintenance dose is 10mg but I often have to go up to 30 or 40mg. I've always had my vaccines regardless. Maybe ring the Asthma UK helpline today and ask if you are worried. They should have the most up to date information. I hope you stay well this winter xx

[bluecar15 in reply to Moomin21]

Thank you, you too 💚💚💚

[Thomas45]

In the 2010 - 2019 decade, there was a period of nearly 4 years when I took prednisolone every day to relieve the pains of an autoimmune condition called Polymyalgia Rheumatica. When, in that decade I also had an exacerbation of asthma, I was given a higher dose of prednisolone to take as well as my normal daily dose. I was at that time, pre covid, getting annual flu jabs. The steroids had no effect on the jabs, nor the jabs on the effectiveness of the steroids.

[hilary39]

Good question for your GP or helpline. I had this same issue last year oer here in France and I think they had me come in two weeks after I finished the course of pred.

[Chip_y2kuk]

A few years ago I was told to have a vaccine (flu or covid can't remember which) while on steroids and antibiotics by the hospital.... so I did and no ill effects

[crille]

Hi bluecar15,

I believe that you need a two weeks spell before you can take a "live" covid or flu vaccine.

But luckily, there are other non-active vaccines available. Let the nurse (or whoever vaccinates you) know that you are on steroids so you get the correct vaccine.

[bluecar15 in reply to crille]

I'm pretty sure neither of them are live so I should be fine there. The only live flu jab here is the Nasal spray for kids I believe and all the covid ones on offer aren't considered to be live

[shirl13]

I've taken steroids daily since 1991. Currently 20mg maintenance and raise when needed. Never been told I cannot have vaccinations whilst on them. Had my covid and flu jabs this Tuesday and am fine

[Asthmasince2yrsold]

Aahh! All very interesting experiences. I have a course of Prednisolone to take. I had both of my jabs yesterday. I asked the GP when should I begin to take them. He said leave it till 2 or 3 days after your jabs.