Flu and HypoT

I may have a case of 'information overload' re hypoT but I have read that it is an 'auto immune' disease. Does this mean that our immune systems are compromised and if so surely we should be entitled to the flu jab? Are we likely to be more ill than others if we do catch the flu?

[helvella Administrator]

Well, not all hypothyroidism is autoimmune - partner's is, mine isn't.

I have seen no end of discussion and the merits versus the problems of flu vaccine. No-one seems to have come out with a fully argued, evidence-based discussion.

The guidance on NHS Choices does not mention thyroid at all - though it does mention diabetes specifically - so clearly "they" do not see thyroid disease as being something that makes us priority for vaccination.

I suppose we should consider that autoimmune thyroid disease seems to be caused by at least a part of the immune system being over-active. So it seems at least arguable that there is no greater likelihood of getting flu - but I certainly would not agree without knowing an awful lot more than I do.

Rod

[Hidden in reply to helvella]

Thanks for your reply helvella.