FLU SHOTS, SHOULD YOU OR SHOULDN'T YOU?

I put the question to Dr. Oppenheimer and this is his direct response: 

Dear Mr. Goodwin,

It is always good to hear from you.

Yes, I agree that people with ALS need protection from infectious illnesses that can cause severe life-threatening illness, such as influenza and pneumococcal pneumonia. There is no evidence that people with ALS are likely to have any special problems with these immunizations.

I strongly encouraged my patients with ALS, and other neuromuscular diseases, to obtain these immunizations:
<> Influenza immunization every year in October or November
<> Pneumovax immunization (this should be repeated once after five years)

At the time that immunizations are given the nurse checks to be sure that you are not allergic to any of the components in the immunization, and that you do not have a cold or other infection in progress that would be a problem.

This is particularly important for people who are older, and for those with additional medical risks such as heart disease or lung disease (such as COPD and asthma).

Since people on average get 5-7 colds a year, it is to be expected that some people will experience a cold or bronchitis within weeks after receiving their immunization, not related to it but just because these occur. It is understandable that these are often blamed on the shot, but actually they are not related to it. And, flu shots do not protect against the 200 or more respiratory viruses infections that cause colds and bronchitis; they only protect against viral influenza, of course.

I have already had my yearly influenza immunization.

As with most medical care decisions, it is best to check with your own physician to be sure that any special individual issues are considered, and to obtain her/his advice. My comments are of a general nature and not individual medical advice.

Major risks for people with ALS are:
<> infections
<> poor nutrition
<> breathing weakness
<> poor cough

With all best wishes,

Edward Anthony Oppenheimer, MD, FCCP
Pulmonary Medicine
Los Angeles, California
 

Incidentally I do not take the flu shot but I think I will this year, I have, however, taken the Pneumovax immunization a few years ago and have found that to be beneficial.

"Believe that you can whip the enemy, and you have won half the battle." General J.E.B. Stuart