The Flu and Arthritis
This flu season may be more severe than usual because of the 2009 H1N1 virus. We will see the effect of a combination of the usual seasonal flu and 2009 H1N1 flu. It’s important to remember that people who have certain medical conditions may develop medical complications - sometimes life-threatening - as a result of any influenza infection, including 2009 H1N1 flu. People with certain forms of arthritis (e.g., rheumatoid arthritis and lupus) may have weakened immune systems, due either to the disease and/or the medications (e.g., prednisone) they take to treat the condition. This may make them more susceptible to flu-related complications after being infected. There are many documents available from the CDC offering guidance on seasonal and 2009 H1N1 flu vaccinations, prevention, and treatment including:
- H1N1 Flu (Swine Flu): General Information
- Information for People with Inflammatory Arthritis or Rheumatic Disease
- Information for Rheumatology Health Professionals
- NEW! 2009 H1N1 Vaccine MMWR
- Summary of Vaccination Recommendations from CDC's Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP)
- H1N1 Virus: Implications for Rheumatology
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Contact Us:
- Arthritis Program
Mailstop K-51
4770 Buford Hwy NE
Atlanta, GA 30341-3724
- Phone: 770.488.5464
Fax: 770.488.5964 - cdcinfo@cdc.gov
