Hello,
This follows on from my previous post on the same subject as I've been looking in my diary 😀
It seems that I had PMR symptoms from early April, but was not diagnosed with it until early June, by which time I had had two Astra Zeneca vaccinations. Would this mean that my immunity to Covid has not been affected ? Thanks in advance to those knowledgeable people out there who are already on the case.
I am in the same situation. First Covid jab in mid March soon followed by start of PMR symptoms. Second Covid jab June 4. Started steroids on June 25. I am interested in what people think about this too.
Hello Seacat,It's all very strange, I must admit.
Hi bluepuddy. My understanding is that although some people naturally may have an inadequate immune system because of lifestyle factors, such as poor diet, lack of exercise, harmful habits (smoking, drinking etc) those of us with PMR/GCA have a weakened immune system because of the medication we take (steroids) Pred suppresses the immune system to dampen down the overactive response it's making, so if you weren't on steroids at the time of your vaccinations, your immune response will probably have been no different to most other people's.
Other's with more knowledge will be able to add to this.
Thank you Kendrew, this is very helpful
Agree with Kendrew comment -"so if you weren't on steroids at the time of your vaccinations, your immune response will probably have been no different to most other people's."
However, now that you are on steroids you do need to be careful about catching a virus (any virus) because you are likely to struggle more to cope with it. So just be aware and follow the necessary procedures to protect yourself.
Thank you Dorset Lady for your, as usual, good advice.
If you weren't on pred until 2 weeks or more after the second jab you will have developed a response the same as anyone else - doesn't mean it is certain and 100% proof, even the trials and post-trial figures only make it about 95% effective which means 5% of patients with double jabs are still going to develop Covid if they meet the virus and get enough of it.
Dear PMRpro,Will my immunity be reduced when I have the third vaccination as I am now on prednisolone ? Sorry to plague you with questions, but you have been very helpful. Thank you.
It is difficult to say how much effect it will have - but the immunity is already there, it will be improved even if on pred.
Thank you, that's reassuring.
I have worked out that I won't be eligible for a third dose until early December (when 6 months are up from jab 2). I am hoping to manage to taper my pred down a bit by them. Maybe that will give me a better response?
Adrenal Suppression
Still unclear about cortisol suppression
compromised immune system
Auto immune Hepatitis
