Hi, I’ve had a letter today asking me to go for a flu vaccination and also Pneumonio (don’t think I’ve spelt that right, sorry!). I’ve not had one before. start chemo on Monday and was wondering if this is a good idea or not? Has anyone else had this during or just before treatment? I know that my immune system will be reduced for the next few months.
I’d always had a flu jab in previous years. When I was on chemo, I asked my onc and she said yes.I was fine. That was 3 years ago and I’ve had one every year since with onc’s approval and had swine flu one last year too. Had a fight with GP surgery this year as they had no appointments left and even the ‘I have secondaries & onc says I should have it’ didn’t work. Not impressed. Going with OH next week when he has his (he gets an automatic call…) to try and blag a spare one.
Not all oncs are the same though, so I would say give your chemo unit/onc a ring.
Hi, this is an info leaflet from the Norfolk NHS trust
Oncology and Haematology Department
Can I have the Flu Jab?
There are two types of vaccinations:
- The Influenzavaccine 2. ThePneumococcalvaccine
The Influenza Vaccine
This vaccine is aimed at protecting people against the flu virus. The strain of flu virus changes every year, therefore it is necessary to be vaccinated every year too.
Who is most at risk of getting flu?
Current Department of Health Guidelines recommend the flu vaccine for anyone:
• •
Over 65years old Under 65years old with other risks such as:
o Chronic lung, heart or kidney disease o Diabetes o At risk of infections (immunosuppressed) due to long term treatments such
as chemotherapy or steroids
Should people who are having chemotherapy or radiotherapy have the Flu Vaccine?
Yes the flu vaccine is recommended for people who are having chemotherapy or radiotherapy as their treatment may put them at a greater risk of getting infections.
When should the flu vaccine be given to people having chemotherapy or radiotherapy?
• Patients receiving chemotherapy should ideally be vaccinated at least two weeks before starting their 1st cycle of treatment.
• It is safe to have the flu vaccination between chemotherapy courses, however it is important to not have the flu vaccination when the immune system is at its lowest. The best time is a couple of days prior to the next cycle of chemotherapy.
• Patients receiving radiotherapy can be vaccinated at any time during treatment.
Would always recommend though you check with your chemo team, they will be able to give you definitive advice!
i had flu jab last year, and swine flu jab done, as well. My son (who was 12 at the time), and hubby had both jabs too as i was due to start chemo . I always have the flu jab due to other health issues.
eva
I had flu and swine flu jabs last year during chemo. No probs with either just the usual sore arm for a couple of days
Marian