Short answer:
Yes—most people who are taking Cosentyx (secukinumab) can and should get the yearly flu shot. The inactivated (killed‑virus) flu vaccine is safe for patients on this biologic.
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Why it’s recommended
| Reason | What it means for you |
|--------|-----------------------|
| Higher risk of flu complications | People on immunosuppressive drugs, including IL‑17 inhibitors, are at greater risk of severe flu illness, hospitalization, and pneumonia. |
| Influenza vaccine is an inactivated shot | It contains no live virus, so it does not replicate and therefore does not pose a risk of causing the flu itself. |
| Minimal effect on drug safety | Secukinumab’s mechanism (blocking IL‑17A) does not interfere with the vaccine’s ability to trigger a protective antibody response, although the response may be slightly lower in some immunosuppressed patients. |
Practical tips
| Situation | Guidance |
|-----------|----------|
| Before starting Cosentyx | Ideally get the flu shot at least 4 weeks before the first biologic dose. This gives your immune system time to build antibodies. If you’re already on the drug, you can get vaccinated at any time—there’s no need to pause or delay the medication. |
| Timing relative to doses | There is no special interval required between your flu shot and a secukinumab infusion or sub‑cutaneous injection. The shot can be administered on the same day, the day before, or the day after. |
| Live‑attenuated nasal spray vaccine | Avoid this flu vaccine while on Cosentyx, because it contains live virus. The injectable shot (Fluzone, Flucelvax, etc.) is the recommended form. |
| Side‑effects | Injection‑site soreness, low‑grade fever, or malaise are the most common reactions. If you develop a high fever or a rash that could suggest a severe allergic reaction, contact your healthcare provider right away. |
When to talk with your doctor
- If you’re pregnant, breastfeeding, or planning to conceive – the flu shot is still recommended, but a discussion with your rheumatologist/dermatologist can confirm the safest timing.
- If you have other chronic conditions or are on additional immunosuppressants – your provider may adjust vaccination strategy or monitor more closely.
- If you’re feeling unusually weak or have an infection – postpone the vaccination until you recover; you’ll still benefit from the protection afterward.
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Bottom line
The inactivated influenza vaccine is safe and recommended for people taking Cosentyx. You don’t need to stop or modify your secukinumab dosing schedule for the shot. Just get the yearly flu vaccine—preferably by the end of October or early November—to keep yourself protected against seasonal influenza. If you have any concerns, your dermatologist, rheumatologist, or primary care doctor can give you individualized advice.