On Humira, reaction to Pneumonia shot

Hi all,

Hi there,

Both my doctor and the nurses at the Humira phone in number said that I should get both the flu and pneumonia shots because my immune system is compromised.  Maybe you should check with your doctor??

I was just wondering if anyone who is on Enbrel or Humira has had a problem with either the flu or pneumonia shots?

 

Alicat

I did check with my doctor, thanks and have been on Enbrel for over a year and was told it would be best not to have any vacines, due to the combination of the MTX and Enbrel.  If you are this concerned maybe you shouldn't either.

I would have it looked at. I have a friend who got the pneumonia vaccine and ended up having cellulitis in her arm from the vaccine! It sounds like what you are describing. If you go in this coming Monday I would just have them look at it then. Keep some moist heat on it over the weekend to get the swelling to circulate better. I dont take Humira but I always feel that since I have been told I have some sort of AI disease I dont want to aggrivate my immune system anymore and send myself into a flare because I might get the flu! I work at the hospital and I always have to explain why I am refusing the vaccinees. Atleast you wont have worry about the pneumonia shot for another 5 years.
As for your WBC's being elevated that normal for them to be elevated in autoimmune and inflammatory disease. I dont know much about Humira but to me it sounds like thats a good thing because your immune system is still working a little to fight infection even though its being suppressed.
take care
melissa

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I also had a pneumonia vaccine 0n 1/22/09 and did had to be admitted to the hospital with the end results being cellulite's, and am know on cipro 500mg three times a day.

I was encouraged to get both the pneumonia and flu shots while on Cimzia/Humira and 6-mp since they lower your ability to fight infections.  I think the drug information just says not to get any live vaccines while on them.  I didn't have any problems with either of them.