Immunisation

Hi, my mum has stage 4 cancer and has just completed two weeks of radiotherapy and this will be followed by five rounds of Chemotherapy.  My query is, should myself and my siblings have the Covid and Flu jabs or will hand hygiene, masks and common sense suffice?  One of my siblings is unwilling to have the jabs and I have difficulty being under the age of 65.  My older sibling is insistent that we should not have contact with my mum if we are not immunised.  Thank you.

  • Hi there Pamlar and thanks for the post

    I am sorry to hear about your mum undergoing treatment currently, this must be a difficult time.

    On the GOV.UK there is guidance on who is eligible for a covid booster, I don't think that family members of vulnerable people are eligible for this unfortunately. In regards to the flu vaccine again there are eligible groups of people who can have this but if you don't meet the criteria you could chose to pay for the flu jab.

    Like with any other infectious illness patients undergoing cancer treatment such as chemotherapy or radiotherapy which may compromise the immune system, should take precautions ( such as avoiding people who they know are unwell with coughs, colds, tummy bugs and so on) to minimise picking up an infection. They can also avoid large groups of people and wear a mask out in public and practice good personal and food hygiene.

    If you or any of your siblings are feeling under the weather it is probably best to keep a distance until you feel well and as you say make sure you are taking extra care with washing hands, etc.

    I hope this is helpful.

    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.

    Best wishes

    Naomi