What a timely discussion...I had mentioned in an earlier post that I had been reading about a shingles vaccination coming out that did not use live virus which would be great for people with autoimmune diseases!

On my drive into work this morning there was a segment on CBC radio on Shingles, and this new shingle vaccination with the lab manufactured virus is apparently more effective than the previous one, and instead of providing protection in 70% of people it provides protection for all, it also lasts longer than the previous shot did. The one drawback that they discussed is it really hurts at the site of the injection - given we live with pain every day, I m guessing it will be worth the short-term pain.

It has been released this month and involves getting two shots instead of one, costs about $400 for the two shots - of course it isn't covered by OHIP, but if I can avoid getting shingles again it will be worth every penny.

Will ask my rheumy about it and let you know the outcome. Thank you so much for everyone who gave feedback on this question/post. Much appreciated.

American College of Rheumatology vaccine guidelines. Good read ...

https://www.google.com/url?sa=t&source=web&...(Phone number can only be seen by the question and answer creators)%2F&usg=AOvVaw2kzJBzza8jzrihNFlSMZDc

I have since done some reading about clinical trials being done using non-living virus. Apparently with RA there is double the chance of getting shingles.
Also, if the dosage of MTX is low it may be an option to get the vaccine with the living virus.
Will check it out with my rheumy when I see him next to explore the possibility.
Thanks so much for the helpful responses.

I recently asked my Rheumatologist about Shingrix. She agrees it’s the better of the 2 vaccines, but unsure how it will effect the RA disease state. Not enough studies yet. Tough call...

This is so funny! I just heard about the vaccine as well, and put a call into my Rheumatologist today to confirm that I can take it.
It’s called Shingrex. Google it!