Flu shot reminder

Flu season is here so this is a reminder to you all to not forget to get your flu shot.  If for some reason you set up the appt for the shot and they say it's reserved for high risk patients, we are considered high risk especially for those of us that are on steroids or immune suppressors. I had the flu once (before starting my flu shots) and all I can say is, I hope to NEVER get it again!  Boy was I in pain not to mention it thru my Uc for a major loop. 

Thanks for the reminder.  :)  Something I've wondered, are those of us with UC more susceptible to viruses than others with "normal" immune systems?  I seem to catch colds and flu bugs much easier now since my diagnosis.

We have a flu clinic at work so I will be getting my shot Nov 9th, hopefully I don't catch anything before then. I still get a couple minor colds every year but no flu for the past 5 years!

Also, my insurance company sent me a letter, telling me b/c of my UC that they recommend I contact my Dr. about getting a flu shot.

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Beth, 32

I've only had the flu once since my UC diagnosis and it landed me in the ER. What's a drag for "normal" folks can be a life-threatening situation for IBDers. I've been getting a flu shot ever since and yes, we do qualify as "high risk."

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Diagnosed with ulcerative colitis spring 1999

Is it flu shot time already?!

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Tabitha (Tab)

100mg Azathioprine, 2 Fibercon, Colazal-6 a day, Acidopholis Pearls, Prilosec OTC

http://www.healingwell.com/donate
Co-Moderator UC Forum

Thanks for the reminder :) I just really didn't know and couldn't find any information that was conclusive for us. Since our immune systems aren't working quite right, it only makes sense. I'm waiting on our insurance to set up "clinics" to go to. I haven't had a flu shot in ages! What are the reactions to the shot with UC? I know before UC, there was always a "risk" to develop flu like symptoms.

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Remember...the various flu (influenza) viruses are not bugs or bacteria. They're also not gastro...most incorrectly called the "flu".

The flu shot is to help protect you from the 3 most prevalent and deadly ones that are predicted for the season.

You don't get the flu from the shot, but will possibly have fever and joint aches and headache from the immuno stimulation.

Some can be allergic to the various vaccine ingredients themselves and have a more serious reaction.

I take Allegra and Tylenol before I leave to get the vaccine....it does lessen the arm ache I normally get. I am zonked that evening or the next day, however, after getting it.

Thanks for the reminder Sherry...I best call for my appointment.

quincy

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Right you are Q.......but also for those that don't know, the flu vaccine does not contain live strains of the flu. Also, I remember my docs asking me if I was allergic to eggs so I'm assuming that the shot has some sort of egg protein?

I've had the flu shot for the past 4 years and never had a reaction at all. Sometimes a sore arm but thats about it.

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I was kind of joking about that this weekend; I get special permission to stand with my elderly parents and their friends and be the first to have a flu shot. And then they tend to give me the look. I'd love to wear a sign..."I really am eligible to have an early flu shot, I have an autoimmune disease!" Hee hee.

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Carol

Remicade - will have my 19th infusion on November 1.

Yes, I had mine yesterday while at the doctor, but he said since I am on remi, it's not just me that needs the shot, but also my wife and best friends who often help care for me.  As caregivers it is important for them to have the flu shot as well.

Don't flu shots contain mercury? Don't want to go there...........