Flu jab

[Pat46]

Probably a silly question but am I OK to have my flu jab this year? I'm on 25 mg Prednisolone for GCA and just wondered if it would make a difference. Thanks for any help you can give me

[polkadotcom]

I've been having the flu jab for more than 20 years, and I've been on Pred in doses ranging from 40mg to 5mg for the last 15 years. I've never had any problem, but every one is individual in their reactions and you won't know unless you try.

[Pat46 in reply to polkadotcom]

Thank you. I'll go for it then, probably won't have any problem but thought it was worth checking with people who had experience.

[Patricia157 in reply to Pat46]

Each time I go for my flu jab I ask to speak to a doctor first to get confirmation that it is ok to have it as the flu jab contents are changed a little each year to suit what is required.

Puts ones mind at rest if nothing else!

[DorsetLady PMRGCAuk volunteer]

As others have said if you've been okay on it before, then being on Pred shouldn't affect you. I've had it at high doses, been perfectly okay, but if you're not sure then discuss with GP or nurse beforehand.

[Celtic PMRGCAuk volunteer]

Pat, as it isn't a live vaccine, the flu vaccine is considered ok for those on steroids. Sorry I can't help from personal experience with it though as I chose not to have it. However, that is a personal decision and it is a decision that each person must make for themselves.

[Nannie-C]

As on steroids your immune system is lower so more open to get virus's therefore recommend to get Flu vaccine

This vaccine is not "live" so impossible to give you the Flu but as with any vaccine can possibly make you feel a bit under the weather or have a tender arm for a few days

I would not dream of not getting it and have had it for the last 30 odd years during my nursing days and of course since reaching 60

[Pollyanna16]

Have been fine for the last 3 years after my flu jab. Go for it!

[PMRpro Ambassador]

Nowadays I wouldn't dream of not having it. It definitely didn't cause my PMR as I'd never had it before.

As for "the contents changing", that is because the mix of viruses changes every year as they mutate, it isn't because the "ingredients" of the vaccine change - it's to make it more likely to recognise the viruses new overcoats.

[Pat46]

Thanks to all of you for the replies. I feel much more confident about going for the flu jab now. Where would we be without the help on this site.