Retuximab and jabs

[sunnyweek]

I'm due the first shingrix vaccine this week at GP surgery and was considering having the flu vaccine at the same time while I'm there. Its too late to ring my rheumatology helpline so I'm wondering if anyone on retuximab has had two jabs the same day, different arms. Thanks.

[Evie3]

Personally I wouldnt even tho its inert. I wont have Covid or Flu together either…viral overload

[Sheila_G in reply to Evie3]

Me neither.

[sunnyweek in reply to Evie3]

Thanks Evie, I did book both together but I've decided to separate them, I hope the nurse wont mind.

[AgedCrone]

How long since your last Rtx infusion? You need to wait a few months to have any vaccination after that. I had my last Rtx infusion in April & I am having the flu vaccine next month, but I am not having the Covid jab at all.

Depending on where you are having the flu vaccination….there may be a qualified person there who can help you. But if you have any vaccination too soon after Rtx …including Flu…it can affect the infusion.

[Evie3 in reply to AgedCrone]

I thought we had to wait a month after Ritux infusion. The same as having jabs 4 weeks before infusion? Is that not correct then? I really want to get the Covid one 😔

[AgedCrone in reply to Evie3]

If you look at various different research opinions it appears the longer you can wait after a Rtx infusion before having the Covid vaccination the better. There is a very interesting article entitled “Impact of Long Covid overstated by faulty studies.”in today’s Daily Telegraph.

It’s too long to copy here, but it’s well worth a read.

PS…just found this which seems the general opinion….look up a few opinions online yourself……

“The critical question is, “what would be the appropriate timing to vaccinate patients after rituximab treatment?” Experts suggest waiting at least five months after the last rituximab administration “

But do check with your rheumy team…..see what they advise.

[Evie3 in reply to AgedCrone]

😭😭

[sunnyweek in reply to AgedCrone]

I'm well past the infusion which was January. In fact, I'm trying to get flu, shingrix which is 2 of them, and covid in before December when I'm due my next infusion. I can usually get flu and covid done easily from September each year, but this year I've got to add in two shingrix as well so wondered if I could get any two together. But reading the replies I think I'll have them all separately.

[AgedCrone in reply to sunnyweek]

Good decision. If there is no particular reason to have the Shingles jab right now….you could ask to spread out those jabs.. Think about it.

[Evie3 in reply to AgedCrone]

17 August. I am desperate to get the Covid one….not so bothered with the flu 🤷‍♀️

[AgedCrone in reply to Evie3]

Can’t advise you what to do, except try to speak to whoever prescribes your Rituximab infusions.

[Evie3 in reply to AgedCrone]

Thanks…will ring helpline