Question:
Flu Vaccine--safe before surgery?

I remember one of the enquiries asking if I had had any vaccinations in the last year. Is it safe or recommended to get the flu shot and the H1N1 vaccine?    — squirrely (posted on October 14, 2009)

October 14, 2009
I went for my pre-op appointment last week and my surgeon recommended that I NOT get the flu vaccine prior to my surgery next week. I would suggest you check with your surgeon for direction.
   — looking4ward

October 14, 2009
I work for a doctor who is recommending both vaccines for every patient, 2-102 years old. The only time he tells them otherwise is if they have previously had a SEVERE reaction. A simple phone call to your surgeon would give you his answer, you probably won't even need to talk to him as most doctors have updated their staff on the flu shots.
   — colleen S.

October 15, 2009
Ask your surgeon, especially if you have any other conditions. My best friend is having her surgery soon and her doc told her to get the regular flu shot, H1N1, and also the pneumonia one because her fibromyalgia lowers her immunity.
   — snickersblk

October 15, 2009
I would have to question your doctor on why they would say that. All recommendations are to get the shot especially prior to hospitalizations. We are seeing HIGH numbers of patients with flu symptoms at the hospital and frankly I wouldn't have the surgery without it right now. Your body is going to be run down after surgery and it will put you at risk to get sick. Please check with your surgeon.
   — kmom1420

October 15, 2009
Good question that I wouldn't have thought to ask if you hadn't -- and just happened to be signed up to get a flu shot at work today. I'm 30 days pre-op, so called my surgeon's office and was told 30 days prior is okay.
   — Janell C.