I have a history of Guillain-Barré syndrome. Are there some vaccines that I should not get?
Yes, your history of Guillain-Barré syndrome (GBS) may be a contraindication to getting tetanus-containing (DTaP) or influenza vaccines. Also, if you have a history of GBS and you are not in a high-risk group for invasive meningitis, you need to discuss with your healthcare provider whether you should receive meningococcal vaccine. You may contact the VHC for more information.
Only one meningitis vaccine manufacturer lists Guillain-Barré Syndrome as a contraindication to further vaccination with that particular vaccine (alternatives are available). Other manufacturers list GBS as a precaution when considering further vaccination. This means that you and your provider must weigh the potential risks of vaccination (possible recurrence of GBS and other symptoms potentially associated with the vaccine) with the potential risks of not vaccinating (risk of contracting the vaccine-preventable disease causing the possible recurrence of GBS as well as the illness and potential death associated with the disease). You and your provider may contact the VHC to assist in your decision process.
