CHAPTER 10 · STAYING PROTECTED

Vaccinations in Ulcerative Colitis

With few exceptions, your vaccination schedule is exactly the same as everyone else’s. Here are the exceptions to know about.

Maria Ditter, MD (Dr. med.), MPH · Reviewed August 2026 · Editorial standards

The Big Picture

With few exceptions, you should follow the same vaccination schedule as the rest of the pediatric and adolescent population. Your medical team will know which vaccines are recommended for individuals with ulcerative colitis.

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A special note about live virus vaccines

Live virus vaccines include MMR (measles, mumps, rubella), varicella (chickenpox), and the nasal spray flu vaccine, so the flu shot is used instead. Most people get MMR and varicella in early childhood.

Before starting UC medications that weaken the immune system, your doctor will check your vaccination history and catch up any missing doses.
While on those medications, live virus vaccines are usually not given.
After stopping certain UC medications, live vaccines still need to wait: usually between 1 and 3 months, depending on which medication you were taking.

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Learn more about vaccine types For more information on vaccinations, including the different types of vaccinations, click here.

Why Vaccines Matter

If UC weakens your immune system, wouldn’t vaccines have the opposite effect? Here’s why they’re still important.

With a weakened immune system, you are more prone to severe infections and complications. Non-live vaccines are safe, regardless of your immune status, and should therefore be taken.

Recommended Vaccinations

Grouped by age and immune status, your medical team will confirm what’s right for you.

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Your medical team has your backYou don’t need to memorize this list. Any vaccinations you need will be brought up and discussed with you by your medical team, your gastroenterologist and primary care doctor will plan the right ones at the right time for you.

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For all Children and Adolescents

Routine vaccines

Flu (yearly) COVID DTaP (Diphtheria, Tetanus, Pertussis) HPV (Human Papillomavirus) Meningococcus Polio (inactivated) Haemophilus influenzae type b (Hib) Hepatitis A & Hepatitis B

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For Patients > 19 years

Adult boosters & routine vaccines

🔁 Boosters needed periodically

Flu (yearly) COVID (periodic updates) Tdap / Td booster (every 10 years)

📌 Catch-up if not vaccinated as a child

HPV (through age 26) Hepatitis A Hepatitis B Meningococcus (specific risk groups)

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For Patients < 5 years or > 65 years

Age-specific

Pneumococcus Rotavirus (RV)

About rotavirus: This one is given to babies in the first months of life, and it is a live vaccine. It is not given to babies whose immune system is suppressed by medication, so a doctor checks first.

Also for some teens and adults: Pneumococcus may also be recommended for people of any age who take medications that suppress the immune system. Your medical team will let you know if this applies to you.

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For Patients Without Immunosuppression

Live vaccines, only if immune system is strong

Important: Only safe if you are not currently taking medications that suppress your immune system. Always check with your medical team first.

MMR (measles, mumps, rubella) Varicella (chickenpox)

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For Immunocompromised Patients ≥ 19 years

Shingles protection

Shingrix (Herpes zoster)

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If any symptom is worrying you, contact your medical team. TeenHealthInsight is a health education resource, not a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment from your doctor or gastroenterologist. Vaccination schedules and recommendations may also differ between countries, always follow the guidance that applies in your country and from your own care team.