As a Cancer Patient, Will I Need an Extra Dose of a COVID-19 Vaccine?
This article was originally posted on Patients Power
Individuals who are immunocompromised, including people with cancer, are wondering if they will need an additional dose of a COVID-19 vaccine to increase their level of protection against the coronavirus. The Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP), which makes recommendations to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, met on July 22 to discuss this issue, among other topics. The meeting was a preliminary step in discussing the safety and effectiveness of additional vaccine doses before any new recommendations can be made.
When a person has cancer, there are two main reasons why they have an increased risk of infection: Either the disease itself or its treatment may cause suppression of the immune system. When this happens, a person may be considered immunocompromised. It is estimated that close to 3% of the U.S. population is immunocompromised, including those with solid tumors and blood cancers, people who have had organ or stem cell transplants, and those being treated with drugs that affect the immune system, including certain chemotherapy medications and corticosteroids.
While research indicates a very strong response to the COVID-19 vaccines in the general population, there is growing evidence that some people who are immunocompromised have a less robust immune response, even after they have been fully vaccinated.
Let’s review a bit. With rare exceptions, it is vital for everyone with cancer to get a COVID-19 vaccination as soon as they can, including those on most active treatments. Many experts at the ACIP meeting reemphasized the importance of vaccinations for people who are immunocompromised and further pointed out the key role of a “circle of protection” surrounding those who are immunocompromised consisting of other vaccinated individuals. It is important that all household members and others you are in close contact with are vaccinated.