So, overall, the benefits of flu vaccine outweigh the risks. Influenza vaccine should also be given to those MS patients taking immunosuppressants, such as azathioprine, cyclophosphamide, and chronic corticosteroids. In addition, those individuals who experienced substantial temporary worsening of MS after getting the flu in the past seasons should be vaccinated. Soreness at the injection site may persist for one or two days. Allergic reactions to the egg proteins in the virus are rare.
Vaccination is safe during pregnancy.
The timing of influenza vaccination is important. Most of the major outbreaks of flu in the United States begin in December and peak in January-February, but can continue through the spring. The best time for receiving the vaccine is probably October to mid -November, but it s beneficial anytime from September to the end of the flu season. Protection from the flu usually begins around one-two weeks after the injection and may last six months. The nominal costs of flu vaccine are reimbursed by Medicare and most third-party carriers.