IBD patients should continue to see a primary care doctor (general pediatrician) for well-child visits. This doctor will review and offer all appropriate immunizations.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) offers easy-to-print schedules for regular childhood immunizations and "maintenance". These are good resources for parents and patients to keep track of their vaccine schedule. You can access them here:
Infants and Children (birth through 6 years)
Preteens & Teens (7 through 18 years)
Adults (19 and older)
It is important to note: Patients taking immunosuppressant drugs (such as prednisone, 6MP, Methotrexate, biologic agents like Remicade or Enbrel) CANNOT receive a "live vaccine" because they can become ill as a result of the vaccine. This is especially important during fall when the flu vaccine is recommended. The intranasal flu vaccine (flu mist) is a live vaccine and should NOT be given to patients taking immunosuppressant drugs.
Yearly flu shots are encouraged for kids with IBD because the flu can be very serious in someone taking immunosuppressant drugs or who has a chronic illness. Also, because the flu is a viral infection it can stimulate the immune system and could cause a flare.
-ImproveCareNow Nurses Group