Hi, does anyone know to what extent Humira affects the immune system, I'm slightly concerned about this new corona virus (in the event it does start spreading) as I'm currently taking a weekly dose of Humira.
I'm quite susceptible to colds/flu and have been battling with sinusitis for a few weeks now, unfrotunately this is alos now a sore throat/cough. This started weeks ago after resuming Humira following surgery (not travel realted or anything like that). It does however make me slightly concerned that if there is some widespread pandemic then us IBD patients are in a potentially high risk group?
As mentioned above I've recently had an operation on my small bowel (removal of a section of stricturing), fortunately didn't require a bag. Given that they've removed the entire diseased section (about 60 cm of small bowel) I'm hoping they might be planning to take me off humira in the near future. I was wondering if any others have had surgery then come off biologics succesfully - how long did it take post operation befroe your consutant decided to take you off the medication?
I'm obviously going to ask the consultant myself about some of these things at my next appointment in May, though would be useful to hear the experience of others etc.. and/or any comments on humira and how it affects immunity with regards to flu (potentially corona virus etc..).
Reply posted for David Thomson.
All of these biologics act as immunosuppressants.
Reply posted for David Thomson.
All of these biologics act as immunosuppressants.
Reply posted for Beno55.
Been in consultation with my specialist doesn’t seem to be any evidence to suggest because we are on humira that there is any further risk of contracting covid 19 .
Reply posted for Beno55.
What led you to having surgery, I have similar stricture but on a 12 month trial on humira, just completed 8 months ,feel as though I have taken 2 steps backward lately ,a lot of pain and yesterday a mild temperature I have not tried any other drugs.
Reply posted for valjf.
As far as I'm aware being on humira does mean it can take a bit longer to shake off a cold or flu. I have a flu jab each year since being on humira.
Reply posted for administrator.
Thank you very much for your reply the IBD patient guidance is useful. I'll keep an eye on this page going forwards. :)
Reply posted for David Thomson.
David
We understand that there’s a lot of information in the news about the coronavirus (COVID-19) and you may be concerned. The Foundation is here to help you make sense of the information and take the precautions recommended by the Centers for Disease Controls and Prevention (CDC).
What special considerations do people with IBD need to keep in mind?
People with IBD who are taking medications that suppress their immune system (such as certain biologic/biosimilar medications, immunomodulators, and steroids) are generally at increased risk for infection. However, there are preventive actions you can take to protect yourself from exposure to the virus and prevent the spread of the disease. The CDC recommends the following ways to limit your risk of infection:
Reply posted for David Thomson.
I am wondering this myself, I have been on Humira for about 4 months and concerned about my immune system. If I am now more seceptible of catching the flu
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