IBD vaccines and infection risk: Foundation bridge

Selected Crohn's & Colitis Foundation educational content and Marks are used on IBDPal under license. This page summarizes how to use Foundation patient education and links to the original Foundation sources. The Foundation does not endorse IBDPal or MediVue. Education only, not medical advice.

Why vaccines are part of IBD safety

People with IBD, especially those on steroids, immunomodulators, or biologics, often need proactive vaccine planning and infection awareness.

Foundation medication and patient education repeatedly stresses asking about vaccines before escalating immunosuppression when timing allows.

Live vaccines may be restricted on certain regimens. Inactivated vaccines are commonly discussed for flu, COVID-19, pneumonia, and other age-based shots.

Infection precautions to review with your team

Ask which fever or cough thresholds should trigger a call, whether TB or hepatitis screening is current, and how travel vaccines fit your drugs.

Household contacts staying up to date can add a layer of protection.

Do not skip prescribed IBD therapy because of vaccine anxiety without clinician guidance.

Using IBDPal

Log vaccine dates, infections, and antibiotic courses next to IBD medications.

Pair Foundation medication education with IBDPal vaccine articles for clinic questions.

IBDPal does not issue vaccine orders or travel clearance.

Practical tips

• Bring an immunization record to GI and primary care
• Ask about live vaccine rules before travel or school requirements
• Report fever promptly when immunosuppressed

Common questions

Can I get a flu shot on a biologic?

Often yes for inactivated flu vaccine, but confirm with your IBD clinician and primary care for your regimen and timing.

Should I pause my biologic around vaccines?

Sometimes timing is adjusted; sometimes it is not. Only your care team should decide.

Related resources

• Foundation IBD Medication Guide (original source)
• Foundation patients and caregivers
• Vaccines with biologics article
• Foundation Medication Guide bridge
• Travel and restroom Foundation bridge
• Foundation resources hub

Educational only. Not medical advice. Work with your IBD care team.

Read the full interactive version on ibdpal.org.