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In one article on this website they said the CDC changed there recommendation for pneumonia vaccines to include asthatics over the age of 19, in 2009. Yet they still have this article on the website saying asthmatics don't need it. Health care recommendations change, you need to update your site.
Cynthia... You are correct. The CDC regs are not always clearly stated on the issue of pneumonia vaccines for people who have asthma, but I managed to track down this article:
http://www.cdc.gov/vaccines/vpd-vac/pneumo/in-short-both.htm#who
... where it DOES clearly state that people over the age of 19 who smoke and/or have asthma should get the pneumonia vaccine. The greater emphasis in the literature is on those who smoke, but those who just have asthma will also benefit from the added protection of a pneumonia vaccine as well.
So thanks for pointing this out!
Best,
Kathi
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I was told by my rheumatologist to not get the Swine flu vaccine because it is a live virus and because I use a biological modifier (Remicade) to control my arthritis. I have both asthma and rheumatoid arthritis. I am a teacher around a bunch of germy teenagers and feel like I am a target for lots of stuff. I am getting the regular flu shot next week. anybody else heard this...
I was told today by my pharmacist NOT to get the version they have as it is a live virus. His advise was to avoid the nasal vaccine (live) and get the arm/injection one.
Yes, one of the downsides of the H1N1 vaccine is that it is made with living virus (though greatly weakened), so people with immune system conditions should definitely talk with their doctors about whether it makes sense for them to get it.
Whether you get the vaccine or not, practicing scrupulous handwashing is a great way to prevent the spread of that virus, as well as others. And, of course, avoiding people known to be sick.
Kathi
That's right... the nasal flu vaccine for seasonal flu is NOT recommended for people with asthma or very young children, as it does contain live virus (though very weak). But, as you said, the injected vaccine for seasonal flu contains only killed virus and CANNOT give you the flu.
Unfortunately, the swine (H1N1) flu vaccine also contains live virus, so you should always check with your doctor about whether it is right for you.
To your health,
Kathi
I am washing my hand and using hand sanitizer profusely in my classroom, but I am afraid not all students that are sick stay home. We have had many students out with H1N1 as well as influenza A. I did get the regular flu shot, but I can't help be a bit paranoid about the H1N1. I am a teacher in a big high school and I have sent at least one student to the nurses office each day for the last two weeks.