Here’s the general approach to vaccines for people taking Cosentyx (secukinumab):
- Live vaccines are usually not recommended while you’re on Cosentyx (and for a period after, depending on your doctor and local guidelines). Examples of live vaccines include MMR, varicella (chickenpox), yellow fever, rotavirus, and some nasal influenza vaccines.
- Inactivated (non-live) vaccines can be given. This includes most common vaccines like the annual flu shot (inactivated), pneumococcal vaccines, hepatitis B, hepatitis A if needed, meningococcal vaccines, HPV, and the recombinant zoster vaccine (Shingrix).
- It’s best to be up-to-date with vaccines before starting Cosentyx if possible. If you’re already on Cosentyx, your healthcare provider can still administer inactivated vaccines, but the immune response to vaccines may be blunted somewhat.
- Shingrix (the recombinant zoster vaccine) and COVID-19 vaccines (non-live formulations) are generally considered safe and recommended per standard guidelines, unless you have specific contraindications.
- If you need a live vaccine for travel or other reasons, talk with your rheumatologist or immunologist. They may advise pausing Cosentyx for a period or choosing an alternative plan.
- Always coordinate with your healthcare team about your vaccination schedule. Immunization recommendations can vary by age, health status, and country.
If you’d like, tell me:
- which Cosentyx indication you’re using (psoriasis, psoriatic arthritis, axial spondyloarthritis),
- your age,
- which vaccines you’re considering (e.g., flu, pneumococcal, shingles, or COVID-19),
- and your country. I can tailor the guidance to current, local recommendations and help you prepare questions for your doctor.
Note: This is general information and not a substitute for medical advice. Please consult your prescriber for advice specific to your situation.