My wife has relaps. /remitting ms since 1998. she has been on copax. for 13 yrs. and is doing very well. she is 63. would it be safe to get zostavax?

Zostavax: This is a live vaccine. Copaxone (glatiramer) can modify the immune-response. The makers of Copaxone (glatiramer) mention this but has not been proven. You should discuss with your MD and Neurologist. This may not a option, but discussion is needed.

MS VACCINE OPTIONS: Zostavax is a live-virus vaccine and is not generally recommended. If her symptoms are in remission most would recommend no change in therapy. If symptoms are active or MRI shows new lesions, then a change may be warranted follow up with neurology and internist. Influenza, varicella TD and HEP B are safe vaccines.

Not recommended: Ask your doctor but in general the pts with MS especially the relapsing remitting type are recommended against getting this vaccine. Inactive viral vaccines are usually considered safe but not while she is in crisis. The Zostavax is attenuated but not killed. It's ability to cause disease is minimized but not entirely negative. check with your neurologist as well.