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Vaccines

Dear Dr Kagen,

I discovered Allernet today and am thrilled. Thanks very much for the good work.

I shortly plan to take shots for hepatitis B, rubella and tetanus. I read of a reader's reaction to the Hepatitis vaccine with some alarm. I am asthmatic.

Is it okay to take the shots together, or should I keep a gap between the shots?

What is the conventional wisdom regarding the use of Betamethasone nasal spray during pregnancy?

Thanks,

Maj

Dear Maj,

Thanks for asking about immunizations and the use of nasal steroids during pregnancy.

Nasal steroids are quite safe and effective during pregnancy when used as directed by your doctor. It is important to be able to breath through your nose, even when pregnant.

The immunizations for tetanus and Hepatitis are relatively safe. There have been very few untoward reactions recorded to the hepatitis vaccines, although it is important to review your own medical history with your physician prior to each vaccine use.

The rubella vaccine has been associated with a type of arthritis which can be aggressive and last a lifetime, due to an exaggerated immune reaction to the antigens in the viral materials.

The timing between injections is determined by your doctor, but it is common practice to give multiple vaccines at the same time. Ask your doc.

I hope this brief information is useful to you.

Good luck.

Steve Kagen, M.D.
Allernet.com