Flu Vaccine and Medication

Guidance for Influenza Vaccination and Timing of Medication among Patients with Autoimmune and Inflammatory Rheumatic Diseases

The physicians at Arthritis and Rheumatism Associates, P.C. advise our patients ≥ 65 years and those with autoimmune and inflammatory rheumatic diseases (AIIRD) age > 18 and < 65 years on immunosuppressive medication to receive the influenza vaccination with adjuvant. All other patients should receive the regular influenza vaccination without adjuvant.

For patients on either methotrexate and/or rituximab, we advise the following:

Medication	Timing Consideration for Medication and Influenza Vaccine
Methotrexate	Withhold for 2 weeks after vaccination, if disease activity permits
Rituximab	Administer vaccination on schedule. Delay medication for at least 2 weeks after vaccination, if disease activity permits
All other immunosuppressive medications	No modification necessary

If patients receive both the COVID and influenza vaccinations on the same day, then follow the COVID vaccination timing guidelines.

Flu Vaccine and Medication

Guidance for Influenza Vaccination and Timing of Medication among Patients with Autoimmune and Inflammatory Rheumatic Diseases

White Oak, MD

Rockville 2, MD

Chevy Chase, MD

Washington, DC

Rockville 5, MD

Frederick, MD

Fairfax, VA

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