H1N1 Vacination and Mulitple Sclerosis
Should you get the H1N1 Vaccine if you have multiple sclerosis?
This weekend, my local Duane Reed drug store had the H1N1 shot available and CBS FM was covering the event.
The only ones I know who actually got the shot so far are my grandsons (one and three-years-old), but that was before the controversy about its potential ineffectiveness.
I get the annual regular flu shot since I have a number of health problems and ALL my doctors, even my acupuncturist, recommends it, but I haven’t gotten the H1N1.
I asked my neurologist about the H1N1 vaccine and he said the determining factor was on an individual basis. He went on to discuss that those in the health field and others that deal with the public such as teachers would probably benefit from getting it. But, all in all, I got the impression he wasn’t recommending it for me. He did mention that they weren’t sure of the neurological benefits or drawbacks.
Next, I asked my Chronic Fatigue Syndrome specialist. She was to the point and just said, NO. I didn’t bother asking why since there has been so much controversy over this shot that I just assumed this was a factor in her advising her patients not to get the shot.
Then, I asked my acupuncturist, Henry Zhen-Hong Lee. I value his opinion because he is not only an amazing NYS Licensed Acupuncturist and NCCA DPL. Herbalogist, but he was also a medical doctor in China. He advised I should get the shot because of my health problems.
Finally, I asked my allergist. She is a very knowledgeable doctor and I trust her advise. She advised that as long as my grandsons got the shot, I shouldn’t need to.
I am fortunate to have a great group of doctors who I respect and feel confident with.
So…I don’t think I’ll be getting the shot this year. I’ll reevaluate next year.
To find out what the National Multiple Sclerosis Society has to say about the H1N1 vaccine and MS, read this article at:
http://www.nationalmssociety.org/research/research-news/news-detail/index.aspx?nid=2115
Please note, this is in no way intended as advise to anyone – it’s your responsibility to discuss your health plans or questions with your doctor.
Until next time,
Karen