The flu isn't fun for anyone, but people who are otherwise healthy usually fight it off more easily than those with chronic health conditions. Things like diabetes, asthma and heart disease make it more difficult to fight off other infections, including the flu.
You may be concerned about the safety of the flu vaccine itself if you have a chronic health condition, but what you should really be concerned about is the danger of influenza. The flu vaccine is safe for most people and is your best protection against the virus that could be very serious if you have another chronic health condition. You should always discuss your particular situation with your health care provider, but we have an abundance of information right here on About.com for you as well.
Arthritis
Should People With Arthritis Get Flu Vaccines?
Asthma
How the Flu Affects People with Asthma
Are Flu Vaccines Safe for People with Asthma?
COPD
How Flu Vaccines Can Help Prevent COPD Exacerbations
Cancer
Flu Vaccines for Cancer Patients
Flu Vaccines for People with Leukemia or Lymphoma
The Link Between H1N1 and Cancer
Diabetes
How the Flu Affects Those with Diabetes
Fibromyalgia/Chronic Fatigue Syndrome
Flu Vaccines and Fibromyalgia/Chronic Fatigue Syndrome
Heart Disease
How the Flu Affects People with Heart Disease
Flu Vaccines for People with Heart Disease
Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD)
Preventing the Flu When You Have IBD
Getting a Flu Vaccine While Taking Immune-Suppressing Drugs
Terminal Illness
Flu Vaccines for Those in Hospice Care
If you or anyone you know is affected by one of these or any other chronic medical condition, talk to your health care provider to determine whether or not a flu vaccine is right for you. More often that not, the vaccine is essential in preventing serious illness and complications in people who have other medical conditions.
