Should someone with lupus get the H1N1 vaccine?

Answer 1

If you have an underlying condition that is compromising your immune system, like Systemic Lupus Erythematosus, you should not take the intranasal spray vaccine which does contain a live but weakened form of the virus. But you also have a higher risk of complications from getting the flu. So it has been typically recommended that Lupus patients do get seasonal flu shots that contain inert or "dead" viruses. These annual seasonal flu shots have not shown any increase in lupus disease activity.

Due to the drugs that many Lupus patients are on and the Lupus itself, the immune response that gives the protection is diminished, so you may not get full immunity after receipt of the vaccine.

Studies have not yet been reported specifically testing Lupus patients with the H1N1/09 vaccine, but studies done on Lupus patients with the seasonal flu shots showed that besides the diminished immunity received, the only adverse effects Lupus patients were more likely to complain of than non-Lupus patients were minor, like itching, redness, tissue hardness at the site of the injection and joint pain.

Since the A-H1N1/09 vaccinations are made the same way as seasonal flu shots, the same should be expected from them. However, it is best to always get the advice of your own health care professional on matters such as this before using any new medications or vaccines.