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Vaccines

Jojodagooner
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  • 35 subscribers
  • 118 views

I have stage 4 lung cancer and had an email telling me I need to book another covid jab.  Ive had 4 so far, does anyone know if there are any risks as i am confused.

  • Hi Jojodagooner

    Thanks for getting in touch and welcome to our online community. My name is Sherrye and I’m one of the Cancer Information Nurse Specialists on the Macmillan Support Line.

    I’m sorry to learn about your stage 4 lung cancer diagnosis. I can see you’ve joined the lung cancer forum; I do hope you’re finding it a supportive place.

    I understand you’ve been invited for a further Covid-19 booster and want to know if there are any risks.

    According to the Covid-19 vaccine information on the NHS website which was updated earlier this month. The winter Covid-19 vaccine is recommended for people at increased risk from Covid-19 and are offered the vaccine if they have certain health conditions (such as cancer) or are on certain treatments that affect the immune system (such as chemotherapy).

    I’m unsure if you are referring to the risks of not having it or the risks of having another booster so I’ll give you information for both.

    The risks of not having the vaccine may include:

    • Experiencing severe symptoms if you get Covid-19
    • A much slower recovery from Covid-19
    • Possible hospital admission may be needed
    • Not having protection against the different types of Covid-19 virus

     

    The side effect risks that may come with having the vaccine may include:

    • A sore arm from the injection
    • Feeling tired
    • A Headache
    • Feeling achy
    • Mild flu-like symptoms

    It may be helpful to discuss this with your oncology team or GP as they know your situation best and can discuss your own individual risk around the vaccine before you make a decision.

    If you decided not to have another booster you might fine this webpage helpful on how to avoid catching and spreading Covid-19.

    I hope this information helps. Please feel free to get back in touch if you want more information or support.

    Best wishes,

    Sherrye H,

    Cancer Information Nurse Specialist 

    You can also speak with the Macmillan Support Line team of experts. Phone free on 0808 808 0000 (7 days a week, 8am-8pm), send us an email or contact us through webchat.

    Ref SH/RH

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