Do you think flu shots are worthwhile? Are they more recommended for people who have low T-cells or are not currently on therapy? Should someone on HAART, who is undetectable and has more thatn 600 T-cells still take a flu shot??? And finally can you tell me if there ANY downside at all for someone with HIV getting a flu shot?

Patients with HIV routinely get flu shots since their immune compromise may lead to an increased likelihood of their getting the flu and having a severe illness. There are lower rates of successful flu shots in patients with lower T cells, but absent some other contraindication most clinicians still give them. The downsides are that some HIV patients may be more likely to experience a flu-like illness following the shot and a small HIV viral increase may occur concomitant with the vaccination. The latter is unlikely to cause problems or failure, however, and is not a reason to withhold the flu vaccine.