Does anyone know if the flu and/or pneumonia vaccine can increase your CRP levels?
Sarah:
I am not a medical docotr and I can only say that in my experience they have not in the past and did not again this year.
Others may have different experiences.
rick - moderator
Hi SarahW. There is some evidence that the flu vaccine can act as an inflammatory. This study out of the Philippines found that the "Influenza vaccination resulted in a statistically significant CRP response:" https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4386725/#:~:text=prior%20to%20vaccination.-,Results,significant%20(p%3D0.77). It also notes previous research in the U.S. and Europe with similar findings. This research raises the possibility of using the influenza vaccine to study inflammatory processes. Best, Richard (RheumatoidArthritis.net Team)
Thank you for your response Richard. My numbers usually fluctuate between 1 to 2.5. My last result was 30.8. I was a little shocked when I saw it. My ESR level was up as well.
Hi SarahW. That is quite a jump. I honestly have no idea if the vaccine could result in that kind of increase. The research article I posted prior referred to their results as "a mild CRP response." As others have suggested, this definitely sounds like something to discuss with your doctor. Best, Richard (RheumatoidArthritis.net Team)
Thank you Lawrence. Perhaps I should follow up with my doctor as the number increased quite a bit from last time.
Hey
,
I would definitely suggest speaking to your primary care physician, especially since the results are so different than previous times.
If you are comfortable, please keep us updated. I hope you are well. All the best, MonicaThank you Monica. Will do 😀
