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Real members of myRAteam have posted questions and answers that support our community guidelines, and should not be taken as medical advice. Looking for the latest medically reviewed content by doctors and experts? Visit our resource section.

I'm wondering if I should get a flu shot?

A myRAteam Member asked a question 💭
West Bend, WI

In the past when I would get a flu shot(required for my job) I would always get sick for a few days. Since I haven't had to get them for a few years I was fine until I got ra and now I seem to catch everything but am afraid I will get really sick if I get the shots, flu, shingles, covid

1 day ago
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Reactions
A myRAteam Member

I personally didn’t get them. The last flu shot made me flare and got sick. But everyone is different. I have lots of allergy issues.

1 day ago
A myRAteam Member

I speak for myself only, I got a flu shot and a covid shot same day. I am immunocompromised from my RA Hadlima injections and I cannot afford to catch either one so I am being ProActive. I would advise you speak to your Rheumatologist about a flu shot if you are hesitant @A myRAteam Member. They know best!

1 day ago
COVID-19 and Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) Essential Updates Read more >
A myRAteam Member

Yes I agree with Cindi check with your Dr first. My Dr didn’t want to prescribe my biologic unless I had a check list of vaccines. This year I also did my flu shot and covid shot the same day.

1 day ago (edited)
COVID-19 and Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) Essential Updates Read more >
A myRAteam Member

It looks like it's going to be a bad flu season in the US. I did get the flu shot - don't need the flu on top of RA. Good luck with your decision and may you have a pain free day.

1 day ago (edited)
myRAteam

It's completely understandable to feel nervous about vaccines when you've had rough reactions before. The good news is that feeling under the weather for a few days after a flu shot is actually a common, short-lived response — it means your immune system is doing its job!

With RA, your immune system is already working Show Full Answer

It's completely understandable to feel nervous about vaccines when you've had rough reactions before. The good news is that feeling under the weather for a few days after a flu shot is actually a common, short-lived response — it means your immune system is doing its job!

With RA, your immune system is already working differently, and many RA medications can suppress it further, making you more vulnerable to catching infections. This actually makes staying up to date on recommended vaccines more important, not less. Here are some key points to consider when talking to your rheumatologist:

- Flu shot: Generally recommended for people with RA, as the flu can trigger flares and serious complications
- Shingles vaccine: Often recommended since RA and some RA medications increase the risk of shingles
- COVID-19 vaccine: Experts strongly recommend it for people with RA, as the risk of serious illness is higher
- Timing matters: Your doctor may suggest timing vaccines around your RA medication schedule to maximize effectiveness

The temporary few days of feeling unwell after a vaccine is generally far less risky than catching the actual illness with a compromised immune system.

Definitely bring this up with your rheumatologist before making any decisions — they know your specific medications and health history best!

1 day ago
COVID-19 and Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) Essential Updates Read more >
COVID-19 and Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) Essential Updates Read more >

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