Book your Spring COVID-19 Vaccination before 29 June 2024

Dr Oge Ilozue, GP and clinical advisor on vaccinations to NHS London, shares why it is important for people with a weakened immune system to have their Spring COVID-19 Vaccination.

Cancer and its treatment can affect the immune system in different ways. A weakened immune system makes it difficult for your body to fight infection. We know that COVID-19 can still be very dangerous for someone who has a weakened immune system.

Some cancers, such as lymphomas and leukaemias, can prevent the body's immune system from working properly.

Chemotherapy reduces the number of white blood cells produced by the bone marrow. This can have a big effect on the immune system. It reduces your body's defences against infection during and after treatment.

Other treatments including radiotherapy, targeted therapies and immunotherapy may also reduce the number of white blood cells and mean you are at increased risk of infection.

COVID-19 is still causing hospitalisations and severe illness particularly among those most at risk. Protection against COVID-19 fades over time so it’s important to top up your protection by having your Spring COVID-19 Vaccination which can be booked up until 29 June 2024.

COVID-19 vaccines have been tested on tens of thousands of men and women from different ethnic backgrounds, and of all age groups, and is continuously monitored for safety.

The COVID-19 vaccine offered by the NHS this Spring do not contain any animal products, including egg. As they are not live vaccines, they cannot harm you when your immunity is reduced.

You can find out more www.nhs.uk/get-vaccine and speak to your doctor or nurse.