Flu and covid vaccinations: why they matter this season

People with blood cancer more likely to catch winter viruses like flu and covid. That's because blood cancer and blood cancer treatment weaken the immune system, making it harder to fight off infections.

Vaccinations offer vital protection against these bugs. Although they may not work as well as usual for people with blood cancer, they can make a big difference. You might still get ill, but you are less likely to get seriously ill and spend time in hospital.

According the UKHSA, the flu season may be starting early this year. As it can take up to two weeks for vaccinations to start working, it’s best book as soon as possible. Especially as November and December are peak times for celebrations where we gather indoors in larger groups – increasing the risk of infection.

Dr Oge Ilozue is a GP and NHS Vaccination Programme Clinical Advisor. She explains,“It’s easy to think flu and covid are only a problem once winter sets in, but these viruses don’t wait for cold weather, and neither should you. Getting it done now means you’re already protected by the time winter pressures and illness really start to bite.”

Yes. We also know that vaccines are safe for people with blood cancer as long as they don’t contain live virus. Flu and covid vaccines are not live. You may get mild symptoms and a sore arm for a day or two, but you won’t develop the diseases you’re being vaccinated against.

As Dr Ilozue says: “Vaccines work by teaching your body to recognise and deal with viruses in the future. Side effects of the vaccine are usually mild and show that your body is producing antibodies to protect itself.”

Some vaccines offer protection for many years. With others, the protection lasts a few months.

For people with blood cancer, covid vaccinations should be repeated twice a year. We know that having repeated doses helps to improve immunity. So it’s important to carry on getting them each spring and autumn. And continue with your regular flu vaccinations every autumn.

Even if a virus changes and develops into a new strain, vaccinations can still offer protection.

You may be invited to have other vaccinations because you have a weak immune system. These aren’t seasonal – you can have them any time. But if you haven’t had them, check with your GP or hospital team whether you should. These include:

• RSV vaccination – protects against a virus that can cause serious chest infections – usually one dose
• pneumococcal vaccination – protects against pneumonia and other serious illnesses – usually one dose, some people will need more.
• shingles vaccination – protects against an infection of a nerve and the skin around it – two doses, two to six months apart.

These vaccines are not live, so are safe for you to have.

• In England: You can book an appointment online or in the NHS App. There's an option to book your flu and covid vaccinations at the same time. You can also call 119 or visit a walk-in centre.
• In Scotland: You will receive a letter, email or text message with details of your appointment or how to book. You can also book online using your unique username and password. You can choose whether to have flu and covid at the same time.
• In Wales: You'll get an appointment letter from your Local Health Board.
• In Northern Ireland: You can get the covid vaccine at your GP surgery, local participating pharmacies or from a HSC Trust clinic. You can also book flu, covid and other vaccinations online.

Thanks to Dr Oge Ilozue and NHSE London for their help with this article.