Flu jab: Can I have the flu jab whilst having rituximab... - NRAS

NRAS

36,431 members45,077 posts

Flu jab

Peterborough67 profile image
4 Replies

Can I have the flu jab whilst having rituximab infusions?

Written by
Peterborough67 profile image
Peterborough67
To view profiles and participate in discussions please or .
Read more about...
4 Replies
AgedCrone profile image
AgedCrone

Hi, PB67.......I spent all last week trying to sort this one!

As far as I can make out, the only people who will give you a definitive answer are the nurses at the unit where you have your infusions. My GP, rheumatologist, rheumatology nurse , & a local pharmacist-I asked them all

None of them would give me a straight answer...in fact Rheumy & nurse gave me no answer.

Then I spoke to one of the Biologics nurses at my infusion unit & she told me that if I had the new FLUAD. (Over 65) vaccine they could not give me my RTX infusion.I don't know about the under 65 vaccine.

But I would urge you to set about finding out today-you don't want to have the flu vaccine & then turn up and find they won't give you your infusion.

I got a lot of prevarication & blank stares before I got a straight answer.

Good Luck.....

cathie profile image
cathie

I have, rituximab infusion was July/August, normal flu injection 2 weeks ago. Am expecting next rituximab in Jan/Feb.

pino99 profile image
pino99

I had my infusion in April and the jab at the end of September. Last year had infusion in September and jab on the first of October, no problems. I get the under 65. It is not a live vaccine, so I think the risk associated with getting flu is much worse than any risk from the vaccine itself. Best

oldtimer profile image
oldtimer

I know that NRAS have put a consensus statement on their website about contact with the live flu immunisation. Have a look at their website and perhaps give them a ring to see what they advise?

You may also like...

Flu jab and methotrexate?

week of my flu jab? I usually have my injection tomorrow morning but am having my flu jab tomorrow...

Timing of flu jab with methotrexate

my flu jab is due the same day. I'll check with the nurse but just wondered what advice you have...

Flu and Covid jabs /medication

Guys So many questions currently sorry x Had flu jab yesterday which is methotrexate day for me...

Flu Jab & Infection update!!!

which has improved daily. Had my flu jab on wednesday and now have a sore arm, which itches and...

Vaccines, or not, incl flu jabs

I know there are issues, not least I have read that any flu jab is at best 50% effective. Hmm....