Hello there
Im wondering if I should I get a Covid and flu jab before any chemo starts in approximately 3 weeks?
I decided not to have my last Covid one because the last time it made me feel so terrible. I never take the flu jab for a similar reason and one year I caught another flu strain anyway.
I’m concerned as I’m struggling a bit 2+ weeks post mastectomy as it is and worried it will wipe me out before I start!
Many thanks.
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@indigo2 i had my Covid jab about 10 days before my first cycle and then my flu jab a few days before my second one.
It is of course personal choice but I absolutely would do anything g to protect yourself going into winter
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@galdiolus The more I’ve thought about it of course the more it makes sense. Just wary of the feeling rubbish on top of feeling rubbish and the recovery. Not a great start to chemo…but the alternative could be much worse. So my wife got hers today and I’m booked for next week.
Thanks for your input, appreciate it 
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It is completely your choice, but considering that chemotherapy is taxing on the body for many, it would be better to go in completely prepared by taking the jabs. Your medical team might be able to suggest better but if it isn’t too painful or mentally exhausting, maybe just go for it. Sending you healing wishes and a speedy recovery.
Hi indigo2
Thanks for posting.
It’s natural to worry about how the covid and flu jabs may make you feel, directly before you start your chemotherapy.
However, as chemotherapy lowers your immune system and makes you more susceptible to infection, you may want to get protected as much as possible before you start treatment as @galdiolus and @sms have said.
You may find it helpful to read our web page about vaccines and breast cancer treatment for more detail.
We offer a range of free supportive services for anyone who has had a diagnosis of breast cancer which you may be interested in. They include face to face and online courses and events.
You may also be interested in our chemotherapy monthly threads on our online peer-to-peer support forum. The forums are message boards where people affected by breast cancer or with breast health concerns can learn about other people’s experiences and share their own if they wish to.
You can also call our helpline if you would like to talk this through more or have any further questions. The helpline team have time to listen, talk things through and signpost you to more support and information if necessary. Your call will be confidential, and the number is free from UK landlines and all mobile networks. The number is 0808 800 6000. If you have hearing or speech difficulties prefix our number with 18001 and the call will go through Relay UK. Our helpline has access to telephone interpreters if language translation is required.
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Best wishes
Catherine
Breast Care Nurse
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