Can I have the flu jab whilst having rituximab infusions?
Flu jab: Can I have the flu jab whilst having rituximab... - NRAS
Flu jab
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.....
I have, rituximab infusion was July/August, normal flu injection 2 weeks ago. Am expecting next rituximab in Jan/Feb.
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
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?