"The reason why the flu is more difficult and potentially damaging to individuals with MS is three-fold.
First, if individuals with MS get the flu, they must endure the associated aches and pains in addition to their normal MS symptoms.
Second, high fever accompanies the flu, and an elevated temperature may increase MS symptoms, affecting one's overall wellbeing.
And third, the body responds to the flu with an outpouring of gamma interferon, a chemical that increases the risk of an MS exacerbation. For this reason, individuals with MS who catch the flu have a greater chance of experiencing an MS attack within several weeks following their influenza (flu) illness."
Flu Vaccines MSAA The Motivator Fall 2009
NMSS Flu Vaccines—2009-2010 (11/19/2009)
While Patti has already been vaccinated for both seasonal flu and H1N1, living with Multiple Sclerosis demands that family and caregivers keep in mind how damaging the flu can be. Double down your bet and get yourselves vaccinated, our daughter and I have done so.
Caregivingly Yours, Patrick Leer
web site: http://caregivinglyyours.com/
videos: http://www.youtube.com/daddyleer
Sharing the trial and error learned lessons of a MS spouse caregiver / carer about family, home care, and transition to the care facility era from 23 years of living with Multiple Sclerosis as a family ... a ‘warts and all’ picture of living with MS.
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got to cover all bases I imagine, Patrick; with having you/Megan vaccinated. hoping the flu bypasses you all in one form or another this season (and that you had a nice Thanksgiving)
ReplyDeletebetty
Good advice, Patrick. I had a flu shot and a pneumonia shot last month... but H1N1 has not been offered to the general public. I think teachers are particularly vulnerable, but we're doing everything we can to alleviate the spread of any germ with handwashing between class changes (especially to and from my art class)and before going to lunch... and coughing into the elbow or shoulder instead of the hands is the rule of the day. Even kindergartners can tell you the proper way to cough. I also notice that when kids get sick, more parents are keeping their kids at home, rather than sending them to school... so I think that schools are doing what they can to keep the spread of any virus at a minimum. When the h1n1 is offered to me, I will get it! Glad to hear that you and your family are doing well. Have a good week. stay warm, be well. bea
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