Meds suppressing immune system

[gothtinkerbell]

I am taking some meds that suppress my immune system. These are for psoriasis and arthritis. I know that we will have the scooter for my mobility issues but should we also get GAC in order to keep me somewhat safe from the crowds? It also has a side effect of causing me not to be able to be in the sun for long periods of time.

 

[natfrac]

You can ask, but you might not be granted a GAC. My DH is on dialysis, has to stay out of the sun, and suffered a mild stroke which left him without "social filters". We asked and were denied a GAC. Needless to say, he had more than one meltdown which could have been avoided if he'd had a GAC. Good luck

 

[rie'smom]

My 17 yo niece has a blood disorder and takes meds which make her immuno suppressed. She had no problem getting a GAC when she came with us last November. We did bring paperwork from her doc as a backup but we did not need it. The CM was great. If you do have a problem, ask for a manager.

 

[LockShockBarrel]

You'll only be granted a GAC if you need it to provide equal access. A GAC is not really going to help you as far as being immunosuppressed. There are a couple places with quiet wait areas but there's still going to be people there, there's still going to be germs. You can probably get one so that you'd be out of the sun, but most places have covered queues. The GAC is not going to help you in lines for buses, food, or parades. As far as avoiding germs, you just have to be smart about it. There's transplant recieptients that are (and I'm making a jump here so I apologize if this is inaccurate) probably on higher doses of immunosuppresants that can go to Disney and be safe, so long as they're smart about it. I'm not trying to cast aspersions or say that your issues aren't issues, but you'll more than likely be fine.

 

[Cinderella94]

I was on immunosuppressants for a while. I hand sanitized everywhere.

 

[minnie mum]

I am on the same type of treatment as the OP. And I have to agree with LockShockBarrel. Your immunosuppression is not so deep that you are at great risk from being in the average waiting area. Frequent handwashing and use of hand sanitizer is probably all you need. You're probably going to be at higher risk from being in an aircraft flying to WDW than you are once you are there, so long as you take the normal precautions.

I'm not sure any kind of GAC is going to protect you from the Florida Sun. There are very few waiting lines that are totally unprotected. The vast majority of your sun exposure is going to come from just getting from place to place. Get a really good sunscreen and use it. Liberally and frequently. Wear a hat that shades your face and neck. Wear a shirt with sleeves. (short sleeves at least). I usually wear a tank top with a light cotton shirt (unbuttoned) over it. Seek shaded areas to rest in (plenty of those are around, you just need to look.) During the brightest part of the day (10-2) try to stay indoors: eating lunch, longer indoor rides and shows.

The scooter will really help with your mobility issues, but your sun sensitivity and immunosuppresion are issues that you should be able to take care of yourself with just a little extra care. A GAC wouldn't be of much use.JMHO & YMMV

 

[disneymommy78]

I also think you should be fine with just careful handwashing.

What does your ANC usually run? My DD is on treatment for leukemia and with her onco's blessing, we are able to take her out and about around town (to movies, mall, etc.), when her ANC is 750 plus (and even that is severely low.)

Just keep up with the handwashing, wipe down surfaces with clorox wipes and you should be fine.

 

[gothtinkerbell]

I am on the same type of treatment as the OP. And I have to agree with LockShockBarrel. Your immunosuppression is not so deep that you are at great risk from being in the average waiting area. Frequent handwashing and use of hand sanitizer is probably all you need. You're probably going to be at higher risk from being in an aircraft flying to WDW than you are once you are there, so long as you take the normal precautions.

I'm not sure any kind of GAC is going to protect you from the Florida Sun. There are very few waiting lines that are totally unprotected. The vast majority of your sun exposure is going to come from just getting from place to place. Get a really good sunscreen and use it. Liberally and frequently. Wear a hat that shades your face and neck. Wear a shirt with sleeves. (short sleeves at least). I usually wear a tank top with a light cotton shirt (unbuttoned) over it. Seek shaded areas to rest in (plenty of those are around, you just need to look.) During the brightest part of the day (10-2) try to stay indoors: eating lunch, longer indoor rides and shows.

The scooter will really help with your mobility issues, but your sun sensitivity and immunosuppresion are issues that you should be able to take care of yourself with just a little extra care. A GAC wouldn't be of much use.JMHO & YMMV

First of all, I am not flying so therefore am not going to be exposed that way. Secondly, as much as I hate to say it this way, just because two people are on the same meds does not mean they react the same way to things. I am completely down for over a week with a simple cold. Thirdly, to the poster who seems to think I want them to close Disney so I can enjoy it, not that is not the case, but I can try to take steps to not over expose myself to germs that most people are able to just shake off.

 

[LockShockBarrel]

No one, including me, said anything like you thought Disney should close so you could enjoy it. As far as what I said, my point is no matter where you turn in Disney, there's going to be people around you therefore it's wise to know how to handle it. As far as a GAC, my point is it won't necessarily help someone in your situation. I said I wasn't trying to make light of your situation, just that you're not the only one with these types of issues and most people can get through Disney just fine if they prepare and know what they're getting into. I don't doubt that it's hard for you to recover from a cold, but germs simply cannot be avoided in public. We're trying to help you with suggestions on how to stay safe and healthy.

 

[clanmcculloch]

Gothtinkerbell, I really think you're misreading what people are saying. People are trying to explain to you the reality of the parks. A GAC can not keep you out of crowds between attractions. There are some alternate waiting areas, but those can be pretty full of people as well so that GAC wouldn't accomplish what you need it to do. There aren't very many attractions that have queues in the sun; sun will be much more of a problem getting from place to place than in queues and outdoor shows are outdoors and nothing can be done about that.

What many of us who have issues with crowds have found is that our biggest asset is a really good touring plan. I've used TourGuide Mike in the past but more and more TGM fans are moving over to easywdw.com as it's much more up to date and follows a very similar philosophy. Both sites have a really good least crowded park chart which will tell you which park will have the least number of people on any given day and both sites will teach you the best time of day to go to each attraction to avoid the most crowds. It makes a HUGE difference in our ability to tour.

You'll probably want to hit the parks mostly early and late in the day in order to avoid the worst of the sun as well as the worst of the crowds. If you're staying for fireworks, stay back for a good 15-20 minutes minimum after the end so the mob can get out on and on the busses before you're heading out. You'll need to take all of your normal sun precautions. You should consider getting a sun shade for your ECV. If you'll be doing any activities where you'll be staying still surrounded by a lot of people (like theatre seating at shows) then you might want to consider a mask. All of the things you do outside of WDW to protect yourself will be necessary at WDW.

Feel free to explain your situation to a CM at Guest Relations. They may be able give you a GAC to help a bit but really you do need to take a lot of action yourself in order for this to work. A GAC is not magical and can only do so much.

 

[minnie mum]

First of all, I am not flying so therefore am not going to be exposed that way. Secondly, as much as I hate to say it this way, just because two people are on the same meds does not mean they react the same way to things. I am completely down for over a week with a simple cold. Thirdly, to the poster who seems to think I want them to close Disney so I can enjoy it, not that is not the case, but I can try to take steps to not over expose myself to germs that most people are able to just shake off.

Perhaps I worded my comment about flying incorrectly. The point I was trying to make was that there are common situations, such as flying, which could put you at higher risk for exposure to infections than visiting the WDW parks.

As someone who was a health professional for over 30 years before beginning this treatment I am quite aware that people can and do react differently to the same medication. I am also quite aware of the usually recommended protocols for dealing with the consequences that you are facing.

The advice that you have been given by the PPs has been correct, and was given in an effort to help, not criticize. It was freely given and kindly meant. I'm sorry if you felt it was otherwise, and I'm sorry that we have not been able to tell you what you want to hear: a GAC (which I am sure you could acquire) will not isolate you from the crowds enough to significantly reduce your risk of exposure. But there are things that you can do for yourself which will.

I wish you a healthy and happy vacation.

 

[Piper]

I am severely sun sensitive and immunosuppressed due to lupus and the drugs used to treat it (among the other alphabet soup diagnoses.) To give you an idea--a simple scratch can take weeks to heal, a cold -- months because it usually turns into either bronchitis or pneumonia.

I go early and leave before the crowds (and hot sun) arrive. When I have enough energy, I go back in late afternoon. I wear 100 spf sunscreen, a hat and long sleeved clothing with special sun protection, a cooling vest and use a good touring plan. Although I do use sanitizer, I try to wash my hands as often as possible. I have my own ECV for stamina (I can't even walk to the mailbox at home.)

It takes me longer to get from attraction to attraction as I usually go along the perimeter where there is shade! I have a GAC, but it only offers limited help. I deal with this daily and have learned to pace myself and listen to my body. I don't expect to tour WDW the same way others do (I can't ride the fast or jerky rides either) but I really enjoy what I can do!

 

[rie'smom]

I posted earlier about my niece getting a GAC. Her infectious disease doctor said that anyone who is immunosuppressed should not stand in crowds of people or should avoid it as much as possible-especially if there are children around. There have been a few people near the alternate entrance but never a crowd and we go during holidays. At times, there has been no one but us.

Since the infectious disease specilaist is a doctor, her recommendations have more weight than lay people. OP, I still say go to guest relations either before you enter the park or after and get a GAC.

 

[Tonya2426]

Just wanted to add my immunosuppressed suggestion - get enough sleep. If I don't get enough sleep at Disney World I seem to catch every little thing and end up getting sick midtrip - if I do get enough sleep I seem to be fine with just hand washing and anti-bacterial gel. (Have a good trip!!)

 

[minnie mum]

Just wanted to add my immunosuppressed suggestion - get enough sleep. If I don't get enough sleep at Disney World I seem to catch every little thing and end up getting sick midtrip - if I do get enough sleep I seem to be fine with just hand washing and anti-bacterial gel. (Have a good trip!!)

I've noticed the same thing. If I let myself get overtired I usually end up coming down with something.

 

[Piper]

Just wanted to add my immunosuppressed suggestion - get enough sleep. If I don't get enough sleep at Disney World I seem to catch every little thing and end up getting sick midtrip - if I do get enough sleep I seem to be fine with just hand washing and anti-bacterial gel. (Have a good trip!!)

I've noticed the same thing. If I let myself get overtired I usually end up coming down with something.

That's why I pace myself. If you are tuned to your body's signals, you will know when it is time to say enough. It isn't always easy to stop having fun. If you know that stopping when you need to can mean doing more in the long run, it will make it easier!

 

[disfan07]

First of all, I am not flying so therefore am not going to be exposed that way. Secondly, as much as I hate to say it this way, just because two people are on the same meds does not mean they react the same way to things. I am completely down for over a week with a simple cold. Thirdly, to the poster who seems to think I want them to close Disney so I can enjoy it, not that is not the case, but I can try to take steps to not over expose myself to germs that most people are able to just shake off.

I have been on Methotrexate for 2 1/2 years along with Prednisone. I understand being down for a week because of a cold. A cold has landed me in the hospital. Since january I have had strep 3 times, 6 sinus infections, the flu, 7 viruses and 2 hospitalizations because of illnesses. I currently have something that has caused an asthma attack and I am under what my pulmonologist and immunologist call "hospital watch" meaning that if I don't get better within the next week, I am in the hospital for stronger treatment because I have been sick for 2 weeks now and it's causing issues with my heart and asthma.

I have never gotten a GAC. We have been to WDW twice and DL times since I began the MTX. My immunologist (who is also my infectious disease doc) has never had a problem with that. She says that it really wouldn't help.

She said the best thing is to wash hands, bring hand sanitizers, eat right and get enough sleep. You are going to be touching things that everyone else has touched, on rides and in shows with everyone else and walking around the park with everyone else. She said that if you use fastpasses, the amount of time you are actually waiting in line is minimal and is the least of your worries when it comes to getting sick.

So to the pp who posted about what her nieces nfectious disease doctor said, this is what MY infectious disease doctor (and immunologist) has said. It's not black and white when it comes to doctors recommendations. That's why the best thing to do in these situations is to ask your own doctor. They know your specific response to the meds. better than anyone else and how high your risk is.

 

[stargazertechie]

I had planned a trip for my Dad who is undergoing chemotherapy that we've had to postpone due to him having sudden secondary infections.

His entire medical team (immunologist, oncologist, hematologist, and surgical team) all gave us their blessing. Our plan was as follow

Arrive at rope drop, back to the hotel at noon. Head to dinner at 4:00 to beat the dinner rush, and then back to the parks at 5:30.

Hand sanitizer, solid 8-10 hours of sleep a night, frequent handwashing, and NO TOUCHING THE HANDRAILS.

I was in Disney during flu season. I avoided getting sick myself just by not touching handrails, frequent hand washing, and plenty of sleep.

 

[ratlenhum]

I've been on them myself for 6 years for RA. I take vitamin D3 and vitamin c in extra large doses while there. Having a GAC to avoid too much exposure means you are assuming that the person ahead of you on the FP line isn't sick, or the CM at the end of the FP line isn't sick, or the handrail that you're touching that has been touched by thousands of other Fast Passers is clean.


Sorry but I can't see being immunosupressed as a reason for a GAC.

I always get sick when I fly but using the vitamin C, D3 and olive leaf extract (natural antiviral/antibacterial) orally I usually keep it from becoming something bad. Ask your doctor for a prescription for antibiotics before you go in case you begin to feel ill you can start.

My son has an autoimmune disorder associated with strep and takes zithromax 2x a week indefinitely as prophylactic antibiotics. You can try that too.

I just couldn't picture telling a CM that I need a GAC because I can't wait in the regular line because being around all those people might get me sick. The buses, the ferry, the rides, the hotel rooms, all of them are stinking with germs any way

 

[rie'smom]

I've been on them myself for 6 years for RA. I take vitamin D3 and vitamin c in extra large doses while there. Having a GAC to avoid too much exposure means you are assuming that the person ahead of you on the FP line isn't sick, or the CM at the end of the FP line isn't sick, or the handrail that you're touching that has been touched by thousands of other Fast Passers is clean.


Sorry but I can't see being immunosupressed as a reason for a GAC.

I always get sick when I fly but using the vitamin C, D3 and olive leaf extract (natural antiviral/antibacterial) orally I usually keep it from becoming something bad. Ask your doctor for a prescription for antibiotics before you go in case you begin to feel ill you can start.

My son has an autoimmune disorder associated with strep and takes zithromax 2x a week indefinitely as prophylactic antibiotics. You can try that too.

I just couldn't picture telling a CM that I need a GAC because I can't wait in the regular line because being around all those people might get me sick. The buses, the ferry, the rides, the hotel rooms, all of them are stinking with germs any way

Disney does.