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Can Flu Shot And Topical Steroid,used The Same Day Cause Health Risks?

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Posted on Sat, 25 Jan 2014
Question: Hi! I just got the flu shot today. I hadn't remembered at the time of the shot but used topical cortisone this morning for a bug bite, is it a problem?Why are steroids contraindicated when having a flu shot?
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Answered by Dr. Michelle Gibson James (1 hour later)
Brief Answer: they are referring to oral steroids Detailed Answer: HI, thanks for using healthcare magic There are different formulation of steroids but in the case of the flu vaccine, they are referring to ORAL steroids. Topical steroids are not significantly systemically absorbed and would not have any effect. Steroids alter the immune system and it is possible that persons on long term oral steroid use can have an altered response to the vaccine. The same is not necessarily so for persons who are only using a short course of oral steroids. Your use of a topical steroid is not going to affect your flu shot. I hope this helps, feel free to ask any other questions
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Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar
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Dr. Michelle Gibson James

General & Family Physician

Practicing since :2001

Answered : 16808 Questions

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Can Flu Shot And Topical Steroid,used The Same Day Cause Health Risks?

Brief Answer: they are referring to oral steroids Detailed Answer: HI, thanks for using healthcare magic There are different formulation of steroids but in the case of the flu vaccine, they are referring to ORAL steroids. Topical steroids are not significantly systemically absorbed and would not have any effect. Steroids alter the immune system and it is possible that persons on long term oral steroid use can have an altered response to the vaccine. The same is not necessarily so for persons who are only using a short course of oral steroids. Your use of a topical steroid is not going to affect your flu shot. I hope this helps, feel free to ask any other questions