Are There Specific Recommendations for Cancer Patients Regarding the Flu Vaccine?
Yes, there are specific recommendations. Cancer patients, especially those undergoing active treatment, should receive the inactivated influenza vaccine (IIV), as it contains killed virus and cannot cause the flu. The live attenuated influenza vaccine (LAIV) is generally not recommended for cancer patients because it contains a weakened form of the virus and may pose a risk to those with compromised immune systems. Timing is also important; the vaccine should preferably be administered before the start of cancer treatment or between treatment cycles.
