GCA & Shingrix vaccine

[Spanky2019]

Does anyone have experience having Shingrix vaccine (shingles vaccine)? I am on 10 mg prednisone, boniva for osteoporosis, Actemra & Dexilant. Rheumatologist said he wants me to do the 2 part vaccine. He also said, "It could make you sick but I want you to do both parts anyway." I know shingles is a nasty illness but I'm reluctant to take anything to make me feel worse. Opinions and experience are very much appreciated. Hope you are having a relaxing day.

[DorsetLady PMRGCAuk volunteer]

This was discussed a few days ago - have a look at this -

healthunlocked.com/pmrgcauk...

[jarn in reply to DorsetLady]

That referred to the "old" shingles vaccine? The new 2part shingrix is not a live vaccine.

[DorsetLady PMRGCAuk volunteer in reply to jarn]

That’s the problem with a multinational forum, in the UK the default shingles vaccine done under the auspices of NHS is still the older version - the new version has to paid for by individual..... and I obviously had my UK head on when I replied. Apologies if it confused.

[jarn in reply to DorsetLady]

Absolutely right in all respects, Dorsetlady! In Canada, we also need to pay for Shingrix but think the cost is subsidised. We believe the cost is worth it. Thanks for updating that.

[HeronNS in reply to jarn]

I think my husband paid about C$80 not too long after it became available. I think that was for both shots.

[jarn in reply to HeronNS]

Okay. We go at end of m onth, so will see what the fees are. (Costco) Thank you for responding

[PMRpro Ambassador in reply to jarn]

The only reason people have to pay in the UK is that there were not currently enough stocks to supply all the state financed systems with enough for everyone who would be entitled to it all at once. Some companies bought it in and supply it privately though.

[jarn in reply to PMRpro]

That makes sense, since it was a relatively new vaccine. It is highly recommended, so don't mind paying. Otherwise, we are rather spoiled aren't we, with our Health Care. Thanks for that.

[Spanky2019 in reply to DorsetLady]

Yes, I had to look up what "fortnight" meant, and I have no clue when metric related discussions occur. Lol. I'll probably go ahead with the shingrix when I feel my best. . It will be $162.00/ shot. I have great insurance but my part D (RX) won't cover. Very expensive to have "the greatest health coverage" in the world. Not!

[benhemp]

My rheumy, who knows of my psoriatic arthritis and PMR, still had me get the Shingrix vaccination. (I just had the first shot about 3 weeks ago; I was sore at the injection site for 3 or 4 days, had a fever the night of the shot, and was more fatigued than normal for two days. The pharmacist who gave the injection told me that a good number of people report a stronger reaction to the 2nd shot. Something I'm not looking forward to!) I am not currently on prednisone, but will be soon.

[Spanky2019 in reply to benhemp]

Thank you Benhemp. Hope 2nd is a breeze.

[jarn in reply to benhemp]

Was advised yesterday, that since I am on TCZ, (weekly injection) that do the shingrix (dead vaccine) on the same day that I would have done TCZ; thus eliminating that injection for that week. Rheumy indicated that there could be some reaction. Keep us posted on how you reacted to second shot.

[Lollybygolly]

The vaccine is contra indicated in the Prednisolone paperwork in my prescription pack. It’s a “live” vaccine. Prednisolone knocks out your immune system. My personal view is DONT. You will be very ill and shingles can cause long term impairment of your vision. It’s also painful. Get a second opinion? But it’s your call. I wouldn’t.

[Spanky2019 in reply to Lollybygolly]

Thank you. I'm in the USA. Read numerous studies regarding my question. Seems to not be total consensus but having the "dead" 2 part Shingrix vaccine is recommended when weighing risk vs benefit. The vaccine recommended here is not a live vaccine. Thank you so much Lollybygolly for weighing in. I'm trying to weigh out pros and cons and I welcome your input. Wish they would have used immunocompromised subjects in early vaccine trials. Would be stronger evidence one way or another.

[Lollybygolly in reply to Spanky2019]

Ah that changes the complexion slightly: it’s only live vaccine that is mentioned in my literature. If you caught actual shingles at this point I expect the outcome would be very serious against having a clean vaccine, if there is such a thing. If you are sensitive to the ingredients that has to be weighed also? Good luck and I pray for a perfect outcome.

[jarn in reply to Lollybygolly]

Re-check this. I just spoke with my Rheumy & pharmacy: shingrix vaccine is NOT live. (the old shingles vaccine was live) Hope you resolve this

[Richnroo]

I’m in the United States also. I had my shingrex vaccination ( first dose) on sept 4. I felt nothing the first day. Day two, soreness at site and some fatigue. That was all. I’m on 40 mg prednisone and rheumatologist was adamant that I get the vaccine. I would much rather have some temporary discomfort than get the shingles, but each person has to decide for themselves.

[HeronNS in reply to Richnroo]

That's how I feel. I'm awaiting results of a test to find out if I've actually ever had chicken pox. If I haven't, the next question is, should one get a chicken pox vaccination? And does that, like the disease, make you vulnerable to getting shingles? It's an attenuated live virus in the vaccine.

[Richnroo in reply to HeronNS]

Now that’s an interesting question and one I don’t know the answer to. 🤔

[Spanky2019 in reply to Richnroo]

Thank you so much. I agree totally. Glad to hear side effects weren't bad too. Hope you are safe from virus, fire, riots, hurricane...whatever. We're in USA also. Crazy world right now.

[Richnroo in reply to Spanky2019]

It is a crazy world right now! I live in northern CA.... right in the the thick of all the fires. Can’t even go outside due to the smoke but so far my area is not evacuated or terribly near the active fires. But I’m thankful I don’t live in a riot area! Crazy times for sure.