H1N1 Vaccine and IBS

Q. Will the H1N1 Flu Vaccine Make My IBS Worse?

A. Good question. If you have IBS, it is common to be worried about things that might set off your system and aggravate your symptoms. Luckily, the reported side effects of the H1N1 swine flu vaccine tend to be mild and do not include intestinal distress. Thus, there is no indication that the vaccine itself will result in, or contribute to, the ongoing gastrointestinal symptoms seen in IBS.

IBS alone does not place you in a high risk group, meaning you're not amongst those deemed by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) to be a priority to receive the vaccine. Remember, though, that you may have other health concerns -- such as pregnancy or asthma -- that put you in the high risk group independent of your IBS. The CDC does recommend that those who meet the criteria get the H1N1 flu vaccine as well as the seasonal flu vaccine.

If you have any additional concerns about whether or not you should receive the vaccine, discuss the matter with your doctor. Also note that your doctor may not have the vaccines when you request them, due to supply limitations.

Individuals who are considered high-risk are being given priority status, but it is anticipated that eventually there will be enough vaccines available to meet demand.

_Sources:

_{"2009 H1N1 Flu ("Swine Flu") and You" October 20, 2009. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.}

_{"Key Facts About 2009 H1N1 Flu Vaccine" October 07, 2009. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.}

_{"People at High Risk of Developing Flu-Related Complications" November 3, 2009. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.}

For more information:

• Flu Shots 101