Vaccinations: Live vs Dead Viruses (In Particular Shingles)

[TOBEY32]

First, I don't know if all vaccines contain "viruses". Always think of colds or flu when hearing that word.
Have you had a shingles vaccine while being immuno-suppressed? Was told because it's a "live" vaccine, I shouldn't. I only take 25mg Imuran.

Hope everyone is well.
Thanks for any info.

David
Tulsa, OK

[Pete]

Hi David,

Not sure how much help I'll be here. I had the shingles vaccine about five years before wegs. So far (10 years later), it's worked.

Flu shots are generally dead virus (unless it's the nasal spray). The prevnar-13 pneumonia shot is dead virus. Not sure about MMR.

[mishb]

Hi David, looking good. Is this a new photo or an old one

Congratulations on the new job, that's wonderful news. Good luck

In regards to the MMR, it should be avoided.
From what I remember, the MMR is part live vaccine.
What happens with the live is that it is a live virus and your immune system will need to fight it.
This is very hard for us/those with weakened immune system.

I'm not sure about the shingles one

[TOBEY32]

mishb, the photo would be recent. Was dressed that day for an interview - thought it would be a good time to update. Someone out there may need a "titers" lab test one day. It needs to read "immune" on the test results, and it did. Here's a Google definition of a "titers" lab test:

The antibody titer is a test that detects the presence and measures the amount of antibodies within a person's blood. The amount and diversity of antibodies correlates to the strength of the body's immune response.

[Alias]

My rheumatologist specifically recommended the shingles vaccine (Zostovax) and said I should get it after I was down to 20mg of prednisone. (So I did.) I am immune suppressed with a weekly dosage of .8ml injected MTX. I have also gotten annual flu vaccinations and the pneumonia vaccine since my diagnosis, based on advice from my doctor. As we know, there are strong opinions on the issue of vaccines. I hope not to invite a debate; just providing info on my own experience.

[JeanMarie]

Hope this helps, CDC info on Shingles vaccine: Vaccines: VPD-VAC/Shingles/Shingles (Herpes zoster) Vaccination: What You Need to Know (http://www.cdc.gov/vaccines/vpd-vac/shingles/vacc-need-know.htm)

[Pete]

Meant to post this here instead of the muscle cramp thread:

Just googled m.zostavax.com: Shingles vaccine contains weakened chickenpox virus. It is not recommended for those with weakened immune systems or taking high-dose steroids.

[Meredith]

My specialist said no live vaccines. I am on 5mg predisone and Rituxan every 6 months (2). When I went to India for work I only got vaccines which did not have "LIVE" viruses. I did get shingles 2 years ago, still have the scars. One of the most painful things I have gone thru. Luckily I did not get sick in India whiles I was there for 2 weeks. I was very careful what I ate and how I took my showers. I was in 5 star hotels so that helped.

[Alias]

I think the answer is probably dependent on the individual and the treatment he/she is getting. See attached stating that it is safe for people on less than 20mg of prednisone and treating with MTX or azapriothine. Also, it's noted in this article that those with autoimmune conditions are more susceptible to shingles, so if it's safe the get the vaccine.... This is consistent with my doc's recommendations and the American College of Rheumatology. Just saying, I would rely on the physicians who know your specific circumstances in deciding how to proceed.

Shingles Vaccine for Autoimmune Disease Patients - Montana Rheumatology - Dr. McNutt, Helena, MT, 59601 (http://mtrheumatology.com/2012/10/shingles-vaccine-for-autoimmune-disease-patients/)