Flu season is approaching, and public health experts are urging everyone—especially people with cancer—to take extra precautions this year. Flu season can start as early as October and often peaks from January to February. Cancer patients and survivors are at higher risk for severe complications from the flu, making vaccination and preventive measures especially important.
Updated Vaccine Recommendations
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Annual flu shots are strongly recommended for all people with cancer and cancer survivors, as well as everyone aged 6 months and older, unless they have a specific medical contraindication. This helps protect both the patient and those they come in contact with.
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Live vaccines, such as the nasal spray (FluMist), should be avoided by people undergoing cancer treatment or who are immunocompromised. The inactivated (killed) flu vaccine, given as a shot, is the safe, recommended option.
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Household members and caregivers should also get a flu shot, which further reduces the risk of bringing the virus home.
Timing and Special Considerations
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If you are actively receiving chemotherapy or other immunosuppressive treatment, consult your healthcare provider for the best timing of your flu shot—ideally when your immune system is at its strongest during the treatment cycle.
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If you’ve had a stem cell transplant, very low platelet counts, or a previous severe reaction to vaccines, talk to your oncologist before getting vaccinated.
RSV and COVID-19 Vaccines
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The RSV (respiratory syncytial virus) vaccine is recommended for adults aged 60 and over, and for certain younger high-risk groups, including people with weakened immune systems.
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COVID-19 vaccination remains important. The CDC recommends all eligible people—including those with cancer—stay up-to-date with the latest COVID-19 vaccines. These vaccines can be given at the same time as the flu and RSV shots if needed.
Common Questions and Myth-Busting
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The flu vaccine cannot give you the flu. Side effects are usually mild and may include a sore arm or low-grade fever.
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Even if you get sick after the shot, it often reduces the severity of illness, preventing the most dangerous complications.
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If you develop flu symptoms or are exposed to someone with the flu, contact your healthcare provider promptly, as early antiviral treatment may be needed.
Ongoing Protection
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Keep up with other vaccinations, like pneumococcal (for pneumonia) and any recommended by your care team.
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Continue hand hygiene, mask use in crowded spaces, and avoid contact with people who have symptoms of any respiratory illness.
For more information and individualized guidance, always consult your oncology team. Up-to-date resources are available from the CDC’s website and your local cancer center.
References:
- Earle CC, Neville BA. Under use of necessary care among cancer survivors. Cancer. 2004;101:1712-9.
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Cancer, the Flu, and You. Available here Accessed January 8, 2010.
- Recommended Adult Immunization Schedule—United States, 2009. MMWR QuickGuide. January 9, 2009 / Vol. 57 / No. 53.
- Frequently Asked Flu Questions 2018-2019 Influenza Season
- Health and Safety Investigator with ConsumerSafety.org
- Chong CR, et al “Safety of inactivated influenza vaccine in cancer patients receiving immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICI)” Clin Infect Dis 2019; DOI:10.1093/cid/ciz202.
