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Shingles shot?

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Ulcerative Colitis
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Posted 5/29/2008 2:53 PM (GMT -7)
There's been a lot in the news regarding the Shingles vaccine. While I am not near the age recommended, my immune system is compromised due to Remicade and having only recently gotten off of Prednisone after two years. The news was saying that if you had chicken pox the virus hangs out in your nerves and can come out as Shingles during times of stress and/or weakened immune system. From how much pain they say it is, well, with everything else I have going on I don't think I could take a case of Shingles! Has anyone experienced this vaccine? Think I should talk to my PCP or GI regarding it?

Meesh
Posted 5/29/2008 6:28 PM (GMT -7)
What age did the articles you read recommend for the vaccine? I know of 3 cases where shingles hit people in their 80s. It wouldn't hurt to ask your gastro what he knows about it; then go on from there. How are you feeling in general? / Old Hat (nearly 30 yrs with left-sided UC ... [etc.])
Posted 5/29/2008 6:29 PM (GMT -7)
I have not had the vaccine, but I got Shingles last year. sad It was awful. I was stressed out so my body said "hey why don't we throw in Shingles??" My dermatologist said it would be a good idea for me to get the shot in about 10 years so I am not sure if they will give it to you if you're under a certain age. But it's worth asking your doc, in my opinion.

Posted 5/29/2008 10:06 PM (GMT -7)
The vaccine is only given to those age 60 or older. Also, the vaccine is NOT recommended for those who are receiving medical treatments — such as steroids, adalimumab (Humira), infliximab (Remicade), etanercept (Enbrel), radiation or chemotherapy — which impair the immune system.
Posted 5/30/2008 6:35 AM (GMT -7)
The product insert:
http://www.merck.com/product/usa/pi_circulars/z/zostavax/zostavax_pi.pdf
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