b'TIP: Speak to your healthcare provider about any challenges you may face with smoking, vaping, or excessive use of alcohol. To learn about alternatives to potentially harmful chemicals, visit the U.S. Environmental Protection Agencys Safer Choice program at: epa.gov/saferchoice. Common Questions About MS and Your Immune System I have MS. Does that mean Im immunocompromised?People with MS are generally not considered immunocompromised, unless they are taking an immunosuppressant medication. However, while the damage in MS is caused by an overactive immune system, recent research suggests people with MS may still be more susceptible to infections from viruses and bacteria than a person without MS. It is important to practice good hygiene and take preventative measures to avoid exposure to infection.Are vaccines safe for people with MS?Because people with MS may be at higher risk for infections, vaccination is important.People with MS and particularly those on a disease-modifying treatment should avoid live vaccines. However, inactivated vaccines and mRNA vaccines are considered safe for people with MS. Depending on the type of medications you take, your doctor may have recommendations on the timing of your vaccinations for optimal immune response.Does my MS medication suppress my immune system? No MS medications completely suppress the immune system, but certain medications do target specific immune cells to reduce or suppress immune response. The following chart shows which medications suppress the immune system and to what degree. Level of Immunosuppression Medications Little to no immunosuppression Interferons Avonex, Betaseron, Extavia, Plegridy, Rebif Glatiramer acetateCopaxone, Glatopa TeriflunomideAubagio Mild degree of FumaratesBafiertam, Tecfidera, Vumerity immunosuppression NatalizumabTysabri, Tyruko Causes targetedAnti-CD20 medications immunosuppression OfatumumabKesimpta, Ocrelizumab Ocrevus, RituxumabRituxan, UblituximabBriumvi CladribineMavenclad S1P Modulators FingolimodGilenya, Tacenso ODT SiponimodMayzent, OzanimodZeposiaPonesimodPonvory Anti-CD52 Alemtuzumab - Lemtrada15'