Good News About the Flu Vaccine
http://tinyurl.com/dkjfr
By Blackstone, Meg
Dr. Dennis Bourdette, chair of the Immunization Panel of the MS Council for Clinical Practice Guidelines, makes it very clear: Influenza vaccine does not trigger exacerbations in people with MS.
A debate has roiled in recent years as to whether vaccinations in general, and the influenza vaccine in particular, might stimulate the immune system. Fluctuations in immune-system function can be the cause of MS exacerbations, or relapses. The panel agreed that there are no data to support the theory that the flu vaccine is unsafe for those with MS. An article summarizing the published evidence, which includes a summary of guidelines, appeared in the December 2002 issue of Neurology.
If you use a scooter or wheelchair, your risk for chronic pulmonary disease is increased, and getting a flu shot is essential. If you have small children at home, a taxing job, or are caring for elderly parents, the flu vaccine might just be ideal protection during the coming winter months.
On the other hand, should you be wary of adding any more drugs and shots to your health regimen, and you are not at risk for pulmonary disease, then it is your decision in consultation with your doctor and loved ones.
If you are experiencing an exacerbation, or relapse, wait until this period is over before getting the flu shot.
Dr. Bourdette puts it simply: "I don't think the flu shot should be a worry at all. It's safe. It's not going to make your MS worse. If you're very disabled, you should have it to avoid pneumonia."
Is your health-care provider not convinced?
The MS Council for Clinical Practice Guidelines is a project of Paralyzed Veterans of America and the Consortium of MS Centers. The National MS Society is one of its 21 members. The Council Guidelines provide evidence-based recommendations on key issues in MS. Immunization is one topic. Fatigue, urinary dysfunction, spasticity, and disease-modifying therapies are also available. Professionals may order copies by calling the National MS Society's Professional Resource Center at 1 -800-MS-TREAT.
Copyright National Multiple Sclerosis Society Oct/Nov 2005
Source: Inside MS
http://www.rednova.com/news/health/272941/good_news_about_the_flu_vaccine/index.html?source=r_health
By Blackstone, Meg
Dr. Dennis Bourdette, chair of the Immunization Panel of the MS Council for Clinical Practice Guidelines, makes it very clear: Influenza vaccine does not trigger exacerbations in people with MS.
A debate has roiled in recent years as to whether vaccinations in general, and the influenza vaccine in particular, might stimulate the immune system. Fluctuations in immune-system function can be the cause of MS exacerbations, or relapses. The panel agreed that there are no data to support the theory that the flu vaccine is unsafe for those with MS. An article summarizing the published evidence, which includes a summary of guidelines, appeared in the December 2002 issue of Neurology.
If you use a scooter or wheelchair, your risk for chronic pulmonary disease is increased, and getting a flu shot is essential. If you have small children at home, a taxing job, or are caring for elderly parents, the flu vaccine might just be ideal protection during the coming winter months.
On the other hand, should you be wary of adding any more drugs and shots to your health regimen, and you are not at risk for pulmonary disease, then it is your decision in consultation with your doctor and loved ones.
If you are experiencing an exacerbation, or relapse, wait until this period is over before getting the flu shot.
Dr. Bourdette puts it simply: "I don't think the flu shot should be a worry at all. It's safe. It's not going to make your MS worse. If you're very disabled, you should have it to avoid pneumonia."
Is your health-care provider not convinced?
The MS Council for Clinical Practice Guidelines is a project of Paralyzed Veterans of America and the Consortium of MS Centers. The National MS Society is one of its 21 members. The Council Guidelines provide evidence-based recommendations on key issues in MS. Immunization is one topic. Fatigue, urinary dysfunction, spasticity, and disease-modifying therapies are also available. Professionals may order copies by calling the National MS Society's Professional Resource Center at 1 -800-MS-TREAT.
Copyright National Multiple Sclerosis Society Oct/Nov 2005
Source: Inside MS
http://www.rednova.com/news/health/272941/good_news_about_the_flu_vaccine/index.html?source=r_health
posted by Bill at 5:06 PM
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