flu shot after spinal surgery?

[melnyc]

My daughter had surgery end of july--and confused about whether or not she should have a flu shot (regular-not swine) ---someone mentioned concern it could cause an infection, yet her surgeon said OK- has anyone else received any guidance about what to do/not do in the few months preceding the operation? thanks--

[LindaRacine]

I can't imagine how a flu shot could cause a bacterial infection, but I'm not a health professional. I wouldn't hesitate to get the shot if the doctor said it's OK.

[loves to skate]

Hi,
My experience was that 5 weeks before my surgery, I came down with a terrible cold and they wouldn't give me a flu shot while I had symptoms. I had a cough right up until my surgery date. They wouldn't give me one while I was in the hospital and after I was recovering, it was too late to find anyone who had a flu shot to give. If your surgeon says it's OK, I would go for it.
Sally

[jrnyc]

i know that they dont want to give a flu shot IF a person has cold symptoms...i have never heard them ask whether one has had surgery recently...only if one had a cough or a cold on the day of the flu shot....

hope that helps
jess

[valleygirl]

I just had my 2 week post-op appointment today and I was told that the flu shots will be available in October (I'm with an HMO) and that I should definitely have it. I specifically asked "even though I just had surgery" and the PA said no worries, get the shot.

Hope that helps!