Can someone who has had Guillain Barre receive a flu shot?

Yes, people who have had Guillain-Barré syndrome (GBS) can receive a flu shot. While GBS is a rare neurological disorder that can cause muscle weakness and paralysis, the risk of developing GBS after receiving a flu shot is extremely low. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends that people with a history of GBS get a flu shot every year to protect themselves from influenza, which can be a serious and even life-threatening illness.

Here are some important points to consider:

1. The risk of GBS after flu vaccination is very small: The risk of developing GBS within six weeks of getting a flu shot is estimated to be about 1 in 1 million people. This risk is much lower than the risk of developing GBS from influenza infection itself, which is estimated to be about 1 in 100,000 people.

2. The benefits of flu vaccination outweigh the risks: Getting the flu shot can help protect people with GBS from developing influenza, which can be a severe illness. The flu can lead to complications such as pneumonia, bronchitis, hospitalization, and even death. Vaccination is especially important for people with weakened immune systems, such as those with GBS.

3. People with a history of GBS can discuss their concerns with their doctor: If you have a history of GBS, you should talk to your doctor before getting a flu shot. Your doctor can assess your individual risk and discuss any potential concerns or precautions. They may recommend that you receive the flu shot under close medical observation.

4. Vaccination schedules: The CDC recommends that people with GBS get a flu shot as soon as it becomes available, preferably in the fall before flu season begins. For those unable to get vaccinated during the fall, it is still beneficial to get vaccinated later in the flu season.

It is important to stay informed and make decisions based on scientific evidence. The overwhelming consensus among medical experts is that the benefits of flu vaccination for people with GBS far outweigh any potential risks.