Anyone who has a history of GBS and is in higher risk groups, including the elderly and those with other serious illnesses, should consider getting vaccinated. If a patient's GBS episode was associated with the influenza vaccine be aware that there may be a risk of a repeat episode. Patients who have recently had GBS within 3-6 months should be cautious when considering any vaccine. In all cases, the decision as to whether or not GBS patients should be vaccinated is always a joint decision between patient and physician.

The CDC has released information on Live, attenuated nasal spray vaccine and the Inactivated Vaccine-H1N1 shot.

For GBS patients – note the following statement by the CDC:
“ Tell your doctor if you ever had:
• A life-threatening allergic reaction after a dose of seasonal flu vaccine.
• Guillain-Barre syndrome ( a severe paralytic illness also called GBS).
These may not be reasons to avoid the vaccine, but the medical staff can help you decide.”

Additional Links:
Government Flu Information
Centers for Disease Control
National Institutes of Health
2009 H1N1 Flu & You

---