Flu jab

[lou1972]

Hello all

I could be mentioning something totally not relevant here but it was something someone said to me this week. I know there are many different types of Vasculitis, I myself have Cutaneous Vasculitis, can anyone say if they have been given a free flu jab because of your Vasculitis diagnosis?

[Hidden]

Hi,

It's the medications that we take to treat the Vasculitis ( immunosupressants ) which qualifies for the free flu jag. If you have lung and kidney problems due to the Vasculitis that counts as well.

[Webbyj]

I have had it but my consultant did say that it may not work due the immunosuppressants.

[lou1972 in reply to Webbyj]

Thank you for your reply. I am seeing my consultant on the 15th January so I will discuss further.

[Greenkit]

Hiya,

I have it every year since i was allowed. Before as it was a live virus i was not allowed.

I have GPA which causes problems with my lungs.

I have to say it is the best thing i have had as other people have been really ill this year while i have just had a bit of a cold.

Ask your Doctor and if you are supposed to have it, if you are you will be sent a reminder every year around September time. The needle is so tiny you dont feel a thing, the area is a bit sore for a day or two but better that than get the flu.

Good luck, if the Dr cant give it to you most major supermarket pharmacies do it for about £5 at the start of the season.

[lou1972 in reply to Greenkit]

Thank you for your message. I will look into this x

[lou1972 in reply to Greenkit]

Thank you. I will chat to my consultant. Your comments are helpful.

[AndrewT]

You should qualify since you are immuno-suppressed.

[Suzycat]

Ive had the flu jab for the last 2 years. You qualify if you are immunosuppressed. My nurse specialist advised me however to make sure that the vaccine is killed virus not live. Ive had mine done at Boots the last 2 years and both times they said it was killed virus. As regards immunity, following the vaccine, the pharmacist said that because I had a depressed immune system, the immunity wouldnt be as effective, but Ive had no problems. I am worried, however about the Australian flu strain, which is reportedly killing people. I stay indoors as much as I can.

[Balderick]

Just to add that I was recently given an injection against pneumonia and I didn’t even know that this existed. Maybe it’s an age thing as I recently turned 50 ? The only thing I have been told to avoid is live vaccines. Apparently immunosuppressive drugs make it dangerous to habe libe vaccines and it can be fatal

[lou1972]

Thank you for your reply. I am learning lots about this. I have contacted my consultant but have had no reply as yet.

I have to leave a message with rhe dept secretary. But I know a few people who are unwell with flu at the moment so I dare not go out the house.

Thank you