MS and flu shot

Q	Is there any correlation between receiving the Influenza Vaccine and onset of MS symptoms? I started having MS symptoms the first year I received the flu shot (about 8 years ago). Is the flu shot recommended for people with MS?
A	The available evidence suggests that there is no increased risk of onset of MS symptoms or of an MS relapse from the influenza vaccine.  For healthy young people who have MS, the flu shot is an option but is not strongly recommended unless they fall into a high risk group by virtue of their job or other medical conditions.  Older individuals with MS, or those who are quite disabled by the disease (i.e. severe enough to potentially weaken respiratory muscles) or who are residents in long-term care facilities should have the flu shot.  Otherwise, the same recommendations apply to those with MS as apply to the general population. Dr. Mary Lou Myles