Shingles and pneumonia jabs
I have been offered the shingles and pneumonia jabs and have been advised to have them before I start a course of Ustekinumab, which, i have been informed will affect my immune system. I have some doubts as to whether I need either of the jabs but would appreciate further advice. I am 74 and in general good health and have only recently been diagnosed as having chrons in January.
Hi
. Your concern with getting a bunch of shots is certainly understandable. That said, I do want to note that those with autoimmune conditions are more prone to shingles. My wife, Kelly, has a different autoimmune condition and got shingles in her early 40s. This article from one of our autoimmune sister-sites goes into more detail: https://rheumatoidarthritis.net/clinical/shingles-chronic-health-condition. The good news is that the Shingrix vaccine is not made from living material , like previous shingles vaccines, so it is not contraindicated with biologic medications. The pneumonia shot pretty much falls under the same guidance. Your doctor should be able to further explain and don't hesitate to ask for specifics. Best, Richard (Team Member)
