Can I Catch The Flu From The Flu Vaccine
You probably know at least one person who claims they came down with the flu days after getting a flu vaccine. Though your friend might have felt sick, the vaccine wasn’t to blame for the ailment. “It’s a very commonly held myth, but it’s just that,” Weinberg says. “It’s absolutely impossible scientifically and medically to get the flu from the inactivated vaccine shot.”
You can’t catch the flu from the vaccine, because the version of the virus used in flu shots is dead. In the nasal spray vaccine the virus is severely weakened, so it’s not likely to cause more than a few sniffles or sneezes. Chances are, your friend either had a bad cold or another respiratory infection, not the flu.
Most side effects from the influenza vaccination are mild, like soreness at the site of the shot, a low-grade fever, or a little achiness. You’re actually far safer getting the vaccine then skipping it. “There’s a much higher rate of getting complications if you take your chances with the real disease than if you get immunized,” Weinberg says.
I Have An Allergy To Latex
Some people have an allergy to latex which manifests as skin inflammation when their skin comes into contact with latex – so-called contact dermatitis. However, neither the vaccine nor any of the vaccine components that are in contact with the injection solution contain latex. That means that Public Health England has advised that people who are allergic to latex can have the vaccine.
A very small number of people have a very severe anaphylactic reaction when they come into contact with latex. Therefore, some pharmacists will advise people with this extreme form of latex allergy to contact their GP if they need a flu vaccination.
Managing Side Effects After Immunisation
Common side effects following immunisation are usually mild and temporary . Specific treatment is not usually required. There are several treatment options that can reduce the side effects of the vaccine including:
- Drinking extra fluids and not overdressing if there is a fever.
- Although routine use of paracetamol after vaccination is not recommended, if pain and fever are present, paracetamol can be given check the label for the correct dose or speak with your pharmacist .
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Can Pregnant People Take Antiviral Drugs
Yes. Oral oseltamivir is recommended for treatment of pregnant people with flu because compared to other recommended antiviral medications, it has the most studies available to suggest that it is safe and beneficial during pregnancy. Baloxavir is not recommended for pregnant people or while breastfeeding, as there are no available efficacy or safety data.
Can I Get A Vaccine If I Have Covid
Getting vaccinated usually means visiting a healthcare provider or pharmacy. If you have COVID-19, that could put other people at risk of catching it from you. So, although its technically fine to get a vaccine including the COVID-19 vaccine while you have COVID-19, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends waiting until youre no longer contagious.
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When To Seek Medical Care
These are the emergency warning signs of flu sickness.
In children:
- fast breathing or trouble breathing
- bluish lips or face
- ribs pulling in with each breath
- chest pain
- severe muscle pain
- dehydration
- not alert or interacting when awake
- seizures
- in children less than 12 weeks old, any fever
- fever or cough that improve but then return or worsen
- worsening of chronic medical conditions
These are not all of the possible emergency warning signs of flu. Contact your doctor about any other symptoms that are severe or concerning.
If you have the emergency warning signs of flu sickness, you should obtain medical care right away.
In adults:
- difficulty breathing or shortness of breath
- persistent pain or pressure in the chest or abdomen
- persistent dizziness, confusion, inability to arouse
- seizures
- fever or cough that improve but then return or worsen
- worsening of chronic medical conditions
High-risk Group:
If you have symptoms of flu and are in a high-risk group, or are very sick or worried about your illness, contact your doctor.
High-risk groups include:
- adults 65 years and older
- anyone with these conditions:
Inflammation Rises As Gut Bacteria Go Down
The researchers measured immune response to the flu shot and diversity and abundance of gut microbes by analyzing stool and blood serum samples taken at various points during a one-year follow-up period.
They found that people taking the antibiotics experienced a 10,000-fold drop in their gut bacteria population a loss that lasted up to a year after they took the drugs. These participants also displayed signs of systemic inflammation that mirrored a pro-inflammatory state seen among people age 65 and older who have gotten the flu shot.
Scientists speculate that the inflammation may be connected to how the microbiome regulates bile acid.
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Should I Avoid Antibiotics Altogether
Not at all. Antibiotics can save people’s lives, and if you need them, you should get them as quickly as you can. Since only a doctor can prescribe antibiotics, this means that you should talk to your doctor if you think you might need them .
However, it is the grave over-reliance and inappropriate use of antibiotics that have contributed to the global antibiotic resistance crisis that we face.
A study by the CDC showed that many adults believe that if they are sick enough to see a doctor for a cold, they should get an antibiotic treatment. The study also showed that patients are not aware of the consequences of taking the drugs if they are not needed. And when antibiotics are misused, bacteria can become resistant.
Impact Of Influenza Vaccination On Amoxicillin Prescriptions In Older Adults: A Retrospective Cohort Study Using Primary Care Data
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Roles Methodology, Writing review & editing
Affiliation Medical Statistics, Faculty of Health: Medicine, Dentistry & Human Sciences, University of Plymouth, Plymouth, United Kingdom
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Roles Methodology, Writing review & editing
Affiliation Department of Mathematics, Physics and Electrical Engineering, Northumbria University, Newcastle upon Tyne, United Kingdom
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Roles Conceptualization, Writing review & editing
Affiliation Institute of Health Research, University of Exeter Medical School, Exeter, United Kingdom
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Antibiotics: Too Much Of A Good Thing
The fewer antibiotics we all take, the better for ourselves and the whole planet.
Although antibiotics kill both good and bad bacteria, they can miss bacteria like Clostridium difficile . After taking antibiotics, you could get a C. diff infection, which causes diarrhea and can require emergency medical attention. Antibiotics can also cause abdominal pain and yeast infections like vaginosis or thrush.
Overuse of antibiotics also contributes to the rise of super bugs, or antibiotic resistant bacteria. So, avoiding antibiotics when possible is one way to promote good health globally.
How Are Infections Treated While On Biologics
- Nose or throat infections affect 1 in 10 people
- Chest infections may affect 1 in 100 people
- Cellulitis may affect 1 in 100 people
- Shingles may infect 1 in 100 people.
Always monitor yourself for symptoms that suggest an infection, such as:
- Burning when urinating
- Red, painful, blistered, or swollen skin
- Sweats or chills.
Your doctor may consider temporarily stopping Stelara administration until the infection has resolved or has been treated.
However, in some situations, discontinuing Stelara may not be feasible and may inadvertently result in a longer course of treatment for a particular infection. This is because:
- Biologics, such as Stelara typically have long half-lives and there may be a delay from the time of discontinuation to the time of immune function recovery
- Discontinuing immunosuppressive therapy, such as Stelara might result in immune reconstitution inflammatory syndrome. This is a condition caused by the immune system overeating to the previously unrecognized antigens because it was suppressed.
Many doctors just proceed with biologic therapy during an infection and treat the infection with the appropriate medication, for example antibiotics if it is bacterial, or antivirals if it is a viral infection. Corticosteroids may also be administered.
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How Do Vaccines Fight Infections
Vaccines help you build a defense against illnesses you could face down the road. We have vaccines against some illnesses caused by bacteria, as well as some caused by viruses.
When you get a vaccine, your body is introduced to harmless examples of bacteria or viruses. This introduction gives your body a heads-up about germs that could become a threat if you encounter them in the future. Your immune system takes note of these possible intruders, and then is ready to respond quickly if you are exposed to them later.
Once youre vaccinated, your immune system has boots on the ground all over your body on the surfaces in your mouth, nose, and eyes, inside your stomach and gut, and circulating in your bloodstream all ready to attack at the first sign of invasion.
The advance intel a vaccine offers is critical: With it, your immune system can stop an infection so fast, you wont ever know it happened.
Remember, though, that vaccines rely on your immune system to build a strong defense, so they work best if you take them while youre healthy.
Which Antivirals Does The Cdc Recommend
The CDC recommends baloxavir marboxil , oseltamivir , peramivir , and zanamivir for flu. They are most effective when given within 48 hours after symptoms start to appear. These flu drugs can decrease the duration of the flu by one to two days if used within this early time period. Oseltamivir , and zanamivir are usually given for a period of five days to treat the flu. For flu prevention, they are typically used for at least 7 days. In some cases, antivirals may be given for longer periods of time. For prevention of flu, antiviral drugs may be given for at least 7 days. In some cases, antivirals may be given for longer periods of time.
Oseltamivir is approved for treatment in those over 2 weeks of age and for prevention in people ages 3 months and older.
Peramivir, given in one intravenous dose, is approved for people ages 2 and older.
Zanamivir, an inhaled medication, is approved for treatment of people ages 7 and older and for prevention in people ages 5 and older.
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Complications From The Flu
For some people, the flu can lead to the development of complications. People can die from complications of the flu, such as pneumonia. Common complications from the flu can include:
- Bronchitis: Bronchitis is an infection of the airway that can cause a cough, wheezing, and fatigue. It may go away on its own in a few weeks, but it might also need treatment to resolve, especially if it’s caused by a bacteria that can be treated with antibiotics.
- Ear infections: An infection inside the ear, which is also called otitis media, can occur after having the flu. Some of the symptoms include fever, ear pain, and dizziness or balance problems.
- Pneumonia: Pneumonia is an infection in the lungs that can occur after having a cold or the flu. It can cause pain when breathing, cough with sputum, and fever. Pneumonia can be especially dangerous for the very young and the very old.
- Sinus infections : In a common complication of the flu, the sinuses, which are located around the eyes, can become infected. Sinusitis can cause a headache or facial pain, fever, and sinus congestion. A sinus infection may need treatment, or it may resolve on its own.
What Should I Do If I Think I Am Sick With Flu
If you get sick with flu, antiviral drugs are a treatment option. Check with your doctor promptly if you are at higher risk of serious flu complications and you develop flu symptoms. Flu signs and symptoms can include feeling feverish or having a fever, cough, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, body aches, headache, chills, and fatigue. Your doctor may prescribe antiviral drugs to treat your flu illness.
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You’re Allergic To Eggs
Most flu shots are manufactured using egg-based technology. Therefore, the vaccine itself may contain a small amount of egg protein called ovalbumin. If you have a severe allergy to eggs or egg-based products, there’s a small chance that the flu shot may cause an allergic reaction. If the allergic reaction you usually have to eggs is simply hives, the CDC recommends that you have your flu shot nonetheless and seek treatment if needed.
If your allergic reaction to eggs is usually more severe, such as anaphylaxis, the CDC concludes that you can still get your flu shot, but it should be administered, “in an inpatient or outpatient medical setting , under the supervision of a health care provider who is able to recognize and manage severe allergic conditions.” While anaphylaxis is a life-threatening condition, a recent CDC study found that only 1.31 per one million vaccine doses administered resulted in anaphylaxis.
Pregnancy And Influenza Immunisation
Pregnant women are at increased risk of complications from the flu. The flu vaccine is strongly recommended and safe for pregnant women at any time during pregnancy. It can also be safely given while breastfeeding.
Flu vaccination of pregnant women also protects infants against the flu for the first 6 months after birth due to transplacental transfer of antibodies from the vaccinated woman to the unborn baby.
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Can I Get The Flu Vaccine If I’m Pregnant
You should get the flu shot if you’re pregnant. “It’s recommended for two reasons,” says Duchin. “One is because pregnant women have a higher rate of severe influenza and hospitalizations than non-pregnant women. And if you give the vaccine to pregnant women, you protect their unborn baby for the first 6 months.” Pregnant women should only receive the flu shot.
Talking To Your Doctor
The bottom line? You need to talk to your doctor. Every patient has different symptoms, needs, and medical histories. Only your doctor can give can tell you if its a good time to get your flu shot. They can also check your overall health and give you other tips for staying healthy during cold and flu season.
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When Do I Need To Get The Vaccine
Get vaccinated as soon as the vaccine is available at your doctor’s office, public health clinic, supermarket, or wherever else it’s offered in your area. “Many people unfortunately wait until cases of influenza are already in their community. That’s not a particularly good idea because influenza is very contagious and it travels very quickly,” Duchin says. The vaccine takes about two weeks to take full effect, so if your neighbor comes over coughing and sneezing and your immune system isn’t yet fully primed against the flu, watch out.
Because experts are never sure exactly when in the flu season the first viruses will hit, earlier is better. Get the vaccine in August or September, and it should protect you through the whole flu season, even if it lingers until March.
Antibiotics Vaccines And Covid
Lets say its time for your vaccine, but youre already on antibiotics for a different infection. Its reasonable to wonder whether your immune system is up to the challenge of building vaccine-related immune defenses while youre fighting an infection with antibiotics. But dont worry: Youve got this.
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Vaccines Do Not Make A Mild Illness Worse
Vaccines only have a tiny fraction of the bacteria and viruses that children encounter naturally. Because of this, the immune system can handle getting vaccines and fighting minor illnesses at the same time.
Vaccines do not make symptoms of illness worse. Like any medication, vaccines may cause mild side effects, like a low fever or soreness or swelling where the shot was given. To help with discomfort from these side effects, put a cool, wet washcloth on the sore area or ask your childs doctor about using pain- or fever-reducing medicine. These side effects are very minor and soon go away.
Antibiotics May Disrupt Gut Microbiome And Inhibit Immune Responses To Flu Shot
A NIAID-sponsored study found that most participants who received a 5-day course of broad-spectrum antibiotics prior to a season flu shot had reduced levels of gut bacteria.
As influenza season draws near, public health officials are once again recommending vaccination with the seasonal flu shot for all individuals > 6 months.
But now, a new study published in Cell, reports that oral antibiotics, which may alter or kill microorganisms in the gut microbiome, can affect immune responses to the seasonal influenza vaccine. The research was funded by the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases.
For the investigation, a team of researchers examined 33 adult participants. The first group, comprised of 22 participants was studied during the 2014-15 influenza season and the second group, made up of 11 participants, was studied during the 2015-16 influenza season.
According to the investigators, led by scientists at Stanford University, the participants in the first group had high pre-existing immunity to the virus strains contained in the seasonal flu shot of 2014-15 however, the group of 11 participants had low immunity to the virus strain in the 2015-16 vaccine.
Each of the enrolled participants received a seasonal flu shot. To evaluate the role of antibiotics, half of the participants in each group also received a 5-day oral course of a broad-spectrum antibiotic regimen containing neomycin, vancomycin, and metronidazole prior to vaccination.
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