Cancer, Flu, and You
This video shares the importance of getting a flu vaccine to protect yourself, your family, and your community from flu.
If you have cancer now or have had cancer in the past, you are at higher risk for flu complications.
Get Your Flu Shot!
Flu vaccination is especially important for people with cancer or a history of cancer because they are at high risk of developing serious flu complications even when vaccinated.
Are You 65 Years Old or Older?
Some older adults (65 years of age and older) may have a weaker immune response to flu vaccines. This can make them more likely to get sick with flu or get flu complications even when vaccinated.
Certain vaccines are designed to create a stronger immune response in people who are 65 or older. For more information, see Specific Flu Shots for People 65 and Older.
You May Need a Pneumococcal Shot, Too
Pneumococcal pneumonia is a serious flu-related complication that can cause death. People with cancer or other diseases that compromise the immune system should ask their doctor about pneumococcal shots.
What to Do If You Get Sick
- Flu vaccines and COVID-19 vaccines can be given at the same time.
- Some of the symptoms of flu and COVID-19 are similar. Testing is needed to tell what the illness is.
- People with a weakened immune system have a higher risk of getting serious flu complications and very sick from COVID-19.