What Is The Flu?

Influenza (“the flu”) is a contagious viral infection that affects the respiratory system, including the throat, nose, and lungs. It is a major cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide and is especially dangerous for those with FOP. 

What Is The Flu Vaccine?

Every year, flu vaccines are produced based on the predicted strains that will be prevalent in the following cycle. The most common forms of flu vaccinations are administered intramuscularly (IM) or provided as a live attenuated virus delivered in an intranasal form.

How Should People with FOP Get the Flu Vaccine? 

Live attenuated flu vaccines are not recommended for individuals with FOP. Transdermal or intradermal vaccines are the preferred delivery method. IF transdermal or intradermal vaccines are not available, it is recommended that people living with FOP receive the flu vaccine using a modified protocol where the regular flu vaccine is given subcutaneously. Please see the FOP Treatment Guidelines for dosing information. 

The ICC does NOT recommend individuals with FOP take the vaccine intramuscularly. 

Special precautions for Vaccination of Patients with FOP 

• An injection site should be chosen near a joint or muscle group that has already been affected by HO, and in a location that would not cause complications if heterotopic bone was to form.

• Take a dose of acetaminophen or ibuprofen with the vaccine to help with any discomfort that the vaccine may cause. 

• Vaccinations should not be given during an active flare-up. 

• Wait 6-8 weeks after an active flare up to receive a vaccine. 

• If you are in a clinical trial, discuss vaccination with your study doctors BEFORE getting a vaccine. 

Antivirals – Oseltamivir/Tamiflu

If a person living with FOP or anyone living with or caregiving for a person with FOP develops symptoms suggestive of the flu, they should get prompt evaluation and consider antiviral treatment (i.e. oseltamivir, Tamiflu®).

More comprehensive information can be found in the FOP Treatment Guidelines 

• Find the FOP Treatment Guidelines HERE

Caregivers, Family Members, and The Flu Vaccine

Caregivers and family members should seek intramuscular vaccinations and NOT intranasal. The nasal flu spray is NOT recommended for those in close contact with individuals living with FOP because the attenuated virus, though weaker, can still give a mild case of the flu to contacts.

Keeping Your Whole Family Healthy 

Everyone should practice everyday preventive actions to stop the spread of germs as shared by the Centers for Disease Control (CDC). 

• Try to avoid close contact with sick people. 

• While sick, limit contact with others as much as possible to keep from infecting them.

• If you are sick with flu symptoms, CDC recommends that you stay home for at least 24 hours after your fever is gone except to get medical care or for other necessities. (Your fever should be gone for 24 hours without the use of a fever-reducing medicine).

• Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze. Throw the tissue in the trash after you use it.

• Wash your hands often with soap and water. If soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand rub.

• Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth. Germs spread this way.

• Clean and disinfect surfaces and objects that may be contaminated with germs like the flu.