Flu Shot ?

My oncologist was adamant that I get a flu shot (vaccine started being offered this last fall about 4 months after finishing my chemo).  She specifically wanted me to get the Quadrivalent vaccine as opposed to the Trivalent.  You'll need to check providers in your error because not all of them offer the Quadrivalent (CVS did).  The easiest way that I found to get this done was to use the CVS online reservation system...That way the have the prescription all ready form you when you go in.

Given this year's flu situation, I'm surprised that anyone would consider not getting the vaccine.  Just because people you know still got the flu, it does not mean that it will not offer you some protection.  In addition, there's the whole "herd immunity" thing...Basically the more people who get at least some protection from the vaccine, the harder it is to spread the virus.  This year's flu is killing people and people like us (immunocompromised) are at higher risk.

When I'm in airports, crowded places, I still wear a face mask.  Not only does it offer some protection, it signals others to keep some distance.  Wash your hands and carry "wipes".  Have a great trip!

It can't hurt and it just might help. A paticularly nasty strain of the flu is going around and the elderly and immune suppressed are most at risk. That's 2 strikes against me. Since "R" kills your B cells, you might consider wearing a msk and gloves. I do.

Congratulations on your CT, Lillian.

There is no scientific reason for you to not get a flu shot, and tremendous evidence that you should.

My oncologist not only required that I get an annual flu shot, but a pneumonia shot as well.  The pneumonia shot is for life, with boosters required later, based on a somewhat complex timescale.

Also get a shingles vaccine.  Shingles is a horrible disease, and very common in people who have had Lymphoma.

max

Do be very sure to check with your oncologist before getting a shingles vaccine.  It is contra-indicated in patients who are immunosuppressed (because it is a live virus vaccine).  You need to be sure that your immune system has recovered sufficiently and your doctor is your best guide on that.

Influenze vaccine is not live virus, so it is OK for us.

Diagnosed in Dec 2014 and ordered to get the flu shot immediately. I had never had one and never had the flu. did not get one in 2015 because I was being preped for Stem Cell, Dr orders. Got on in 2016 & 2017. About 2 weeks ago I got the flu for the first time in my life. Knocked me out for almost 3 days and slow going for a week after that. I have not gotten the pneumonia shot or shingles. My husband got shingles while I was going through chemo, yes he had gotten the shot. His Dr. was more worried about me than him. I probably should askmy Dr about these other 2 shots. 

Evarista said:

Live virus vaccines

The CDC, as well as many cancer websites, are very clear on this point:  avoid live virus vaccines for the severely immunocompromised.  In addition to the Shingles vaccine, there are several others, mostly pediatric vaccines.  This is part of the reason that we are cautioned to avoid small children immediately after our immunosuprressive chemo.  A low-dose measles may be fine for them, not so much for us and their parents may not tell you that they just got their MMR.  Here is a concise website addressing the issue:  https://www.vaccines.gov/basics/types/index.html If you have any concerns, check with your doctor.

Lindary, so glad that you recovered from your flu and glad you had the shot to help you with that.

Evarista, 

Thank you for the link to the article on vaccines.  I’m comparing it to the schedule they gave me after my SCT.  I’m a bit behind, but the article helps me understand more. 

Sharon