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A to Z of MS Influenza immunisation

As well as the symptoms caused by 'flu, the fever associated with the infection can lead to a worsening of MS symptoms for those people with MS who are adversely affected by heat.

NICE guidelines state that people with MS should be offered immunisation against influenza as infections may be associated with worsening of symptoms or could trigger relapse.

Although MS is not listed in the clinical risk groups who should be offered a flu vaccination, the Department of Health's guidelines say that "GPs should take into account the risk of influenza infection exacerbating any underlying disease that a patient may have, as well as the risk of serious illness from influenza itself... GPs should consider on an individual basis the clinical needs of their patients including individuals with multiple sclerosis."

The Department of Health's guidelines also currently state that the flu vaccine should also be offered to all who are in receipt of carer's allowance or are the main carer for a person whose welfare may be at risk if the carer falls ill.

Reference

Rutschmann OT, et al.
Immunization and MS: a summary of published evidence and recommendations.
Neurology 2002;59(12):1837-1843.
abstract

Department of Health.
PL CMO (2009)1, PL CNO (2009)1, PL CPHO (2009)1: the influenza immunisation programme 2009/10.
London:DH;3 April 2009.
available from the Department of Health website

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