Flu Jab

[QAGS]

any thoughts on having it? I am on MXT 20mgm orally weekly. Had it for the first time last year, no problems, why am I dithering?

[Azzure]

Hi..

I never had the flu jab before my RA diagnosis 3 years ago. And I could have it free of charge because of my job. I just did not want it because of the research etc. I just upped my Vitamin D levels and luckily have always been fine.

I have it every year now because it is recommended for people with RA, and whether I like it or not I need that added protection. I am also on Methotrexate since September other DMARDS prior to that. I had the flu Jab a few weeks ago and I was absolutely fine.

Good Luck!

[nomoreheels]

I recommend it. If you're asking yourself why you're dithering when all was well last year then I think you've answered your own question! The thing you've to consider is how flu could potentially affect you, not only the horrible symptoms of flu but, with the addition of having RD, it's what else it could turn into you don't want. Hospitals are busy enough during flu season without us not protecting ourselves when we’re offered it. This is why I've always had the flu jab even before being diagnosed. Firstly because I worked in a GP Practice & thereafter because my h became diabetic & it was recommended that anyone living in the same household as someone at risk were offered it (this was in Spain though it is recommended here now though we're not always notified).

[QAGS in reply to nomoreheels]

thank you

[cathie in reply to nomoreheels]

A Spanish friend tells me that the whole population gets flu jab there now

[nomoreheels in reply to cathie]

It wouldn’t surprise me, they are sensible with things like that. Another example would be my h's diabetic nurse added PSA (prostate) twice a years to his diabetic bloods, which he had done monthly, here he's lucky to have them annually & only after being reminded by him initiating an appointment. He's asked if they can add PSA here but told they don't do that. We're aware it's not a foolproof test but surely it's better than leaving testing him until he has symptoms? I've said before that I was seen every three months by my Consultant. As a result I was better controlled & any issues were addressed promptly. The only time I saw a Registrar was if I agreed to one being in the room, which I never refused obvs. You could have knocked me down with a feather when I learnt I’d only see my Rheumy here annually & a Registrar when it's not her. Sorry Cathy, gone on a bit but it does seem backwards in some areas the NHS. 🤨

[cathie in reply to nomoreheels]

I suspect there’s good aspects on both sides. Recently I saw a fascinating news clip about the Spanish system for donations of body parts. Apparently people have really embraced it. There’s things we can learn from all over.

[juneann]

Too risky not to as the consequences could be life changing, if not life ending. Dramatic but true.

[sylvi]

I have had it for years and only once did I get the flu and it was very early on with my disease.xxxx

[Ruth12345]

I'm the same. Never had it before RD was diagnosed 3 years ago. On methx &dmards. Now have it every year. Don't want something else as well, RD is enough to deal with. Never had problems from flu jab.

I wish you all the best.

[Mmrr]

I've had it every year since diagnosis, recommended by my rheumatologist and GP.

[Happy5]

I have mine each year when I have a monthly blood test ,

I travel in winter so don't like to risk not having it.

My husband is now in the group to have it, one year he didn't became ill when we

were away in Malaysia. Never seen him so ill thought he'd need hospitalising was going to die.

He's never missed since.

[oldtimer]

What is making you hesitate? You need to look at those factors and get the information from reliable sources to satisfy your worries.

[cathie]

Have it! It protects you and others with whom you’re in contact from most strains of flu.

[Zip1]

Have it!

[QAGS in reply to Zip1]

Right!

[Zip1]

Sorry that sounded bossy! I just didn’t need to say more as everyone else has covered my thoughts. Be safe and well!

[mickam]

I would advise everyone who is offered the flu jab to have it. I suffer from RA, Antiphospholipid Syndrome, COPD, and Heart disease, to name but a few, so for me it's a no brainer. I believe that for anyone with a chronic condition, particularly an auto immune condition,the benefits far outweigh any possible down side.

[AudreyJ]

I always have one, had RA for 6 years now. This year it made me feel ropey for a week (aching joints etc) but so much better than getting flu, and all the allied risks. Have you had a pneumonia jab? Definitely worth it too.