For cancer patients, the immune system is generally weaker than the average person. If infected with COVID-19, there is a higher risk of severe symptoms, and the body’s ability to fight COVID-19 decreases. Therefore, it is very important that all cancer patients should get vaccinated against COVID-19 as soon as possible to reduce the chance of death.

Why cancer patients need to get vaccinated against COVID-19

• Lower immunity than the general population
• If infected with COVID-19, symptoms can be more severe than usual
• The COVID-19 virus can stay in the body longer than in the general population

Cancer patients and the timing of COVID vaccination-19

Cancer patients are a diverse group, thus for the vaccination against COVID-19 to be effective, it should be administered appropriately, including:

• Cancer patients who can get vaccinated against COVID-19 immediately include:
  • Cancer patients who have been diagnosed but have not yet started treatment 
  • Cancer patients undergoing treatment, such as taking medication and seeing a doctor monthly 
  • Cancer patients who have finished treatment and have no history of vaccine allergies
• Cancer patients who can get vaccinated against COVID-19 as per the doctor’s recommendations include:
  • Cancer patients receiving injections, such as chemotherapy, targeted therapy, immune-boosting drugs 
  • Cancer patients undergoing radiation therapy 
  • Cancer patients undergoing surgery, should get vaccinated approximately 2 weeks before or after surgery, according to the doctor’s advice
  • Cancer patients undergoing bone marrow transplantation must wait approximately 3 months after treatment for the body to recover and show no complications before getting vaccinated against COVID-19
  • Acute myeloid leukemia patients receiving chemotherapy that destroys cells, should get vaccinated when white blood cell levels are normal

Preparing cancer patients for COVID vaccination-19

• Get enough sleep 6 – 7 hours
• Drink enough water about 500 – 1,000 cc
• Avoid drinking tea, coffee
• Keep the mind relaxed, not stressed
• If you feel feverish or unwell, postpone the vaccination
• Do not take non-prescription drugs or supplements before getting vaccinated

Post-vaccination care for cancer patients-19

• If you have a fever or headache, you can take pain relievers
• If you experience hives, high fever, dizziness, fainting, weakness in limbs, chest pain, see a doctor immediately
• Wear masks, wash hands frequently, practice social distancing
• Complete the vaccination as per appointment for all 2 doses
• Consult your doctor immediately if you have questions or concerns

Relatives of cancer patients and COVID-19 vaccine

Relatives of cancer patients should get vaccinated against COVID-19 as soon as possible and should strictly take care of themselves by wearing surgical masks, maintaining social distance, washing hands frequently, avoiding crowded places, to prevent the spread of infection to cancer patients, even if they have been vaccinated.

Additionally, cancer patients can receive any vaccine provided it meets the standards approved by the Food and Drug Administration, Ministry of Public Health only.