Cancer Research UK main site
  • Replies 3 replies
  • Views 529 views
  • Users 0 members are here

Immunocompromised?

SFUC
Offline

Brief history:

Surgery for bowel cancer Aug 2020, adjuvant chemo finished Dec 2020. Lung mets diagnosed summer 2021 and radiotherapy treatment in Nov 2021. Small lung mets still in place but currently no treatment.

Am I immunicompromised? Should I be having covid booster? Consultant not helpful - said take it if offered! Haven't been offered although local booster session scheduled for next week.

Any thoughts?

Many thanks. Helen

  • Offline

    Hi Helen, 

    I was told after 6-12 months of chemo finishing that my immune system would be recovered. However I am 5.5 years in remission and I’ve had letters throughout the pandemic saying I’ve a medical condition which may include a weakened immune system and have been on the list for boosters because of this. I’d say at this point the covid booster is probably the same as the flu jab as optional and will be an ongoing thing as the variant changes and therefore personal preference over Mexican recommendation if you wish to receive it. 

    I hope this response is helpful. 

    Carrie-Ann 

  • Hello there Helen and thanks for posting

    I am sorry to hear about your situation and I can appreciate your question about having a covid booster.

    You are referring specifically to the Spring Booster Campaign This is aimed at people aged 75 years and over, those in care homes, and those aged 5 years and over with a weakened immune system who are being offered a spring booster of COVID-19 vaccine.

    Unfortunately, the guidance around who is eligible when it comes to cancer patients is quite vague. You can read the list of those people considered to be extremely vulnerable and most likely to become seriously unwell were they to come into contact with covid here on the GOV.UK website. 

    People will be invited to have the vaccination if they fall into one of the above categories. However, if you are not invited I am sorry but we are unable to say if you can have it. The general advice is to talk to your consultant about whether you need to have the vaccine now, but it looks like you have done that. Therefore you might find your GP can provide helpful information about this.

    Please get back to us if you need any more information or support.  You may find it helpful to talk things through with one of the nurses on our helpline.  The number to call is Freephone 0808 800 4040 and the lines are open from 9am till 5pm Monday to Friday.

    Take care,

    Caroline 

  • Offline

    Hi Helen, 

    You're likely not immunocompromised now. However, I was on the vulnerable list for Covid boosters due to chemo and got my vaccinations just after the over 75s were done. It makes sense to still be on the vulnerable list as we got our boosters way earlier than the rest. I still am and so is everyone in my large group from the Maggie's Centre. I hope that helps. 

Speak to a nurse

Quick links

Follow us

Registered with Fundraising Regulator (logo)
Cancer Research UK is a registered charity in England and Wales (1089464), Scotland (SC041666), the Isle of Man (1103) and Jersey (247). A company limited by guarantee. Registered company in England and Wales (4325234) and the Isle of Man (5713F). Registered address: 2 Redman Place, London, E20 1JQ.