Flu’ vaccine

[Abc123qaz]

I am on Venetoclax 400mg for 4 weeks now and am wondering is it safe to have flu vaccine this winter?

[Justasheet1]

That’s a question for your doctor but mine at MD Anderson said, “absolutely.” I actually followed Dr Brian Koffman’s @bkoffman advice this year and waited a little to get mine. I actually got the jab yesterday. It was the quad version and have a sore arm today. I’m currently on ibrutinib.

Jeff

[Newdawn Administrator]

I’m certainly having one and I’ve been on Venetoclax for well over a year. Haematologist supports it.

Newdawn

[AussieNeil Partner Administrator]

Safety isn't the issue. It's more a question of effectiveness when you may have so few B-cells present to respond to the vaccine and produce antibodies to protect you against the flu.

I questioned my haematologist, when in the same situation as you and he recommended I still go ahead with a flu shot. That's because the vaccine can still stimulate memory lymphocytes and stimulate T-lymphocyte based immunity. Even a small benefit is worth it.

Neil

[Smakwater]

Abc123qaz,

My specialist approved both my flu vaccination and pneumonia shot during treatment with Obinutuzumab plus venetoclax.

JM

[Smakwater in reply to Smakwater]

One post forward and found this -

healthunlocked.com/cllsuppo...

[thb4747]

I was advised to have the flu shot each year that I’ve been on Venetoclax — 3 winters now. No issues and, more importantly, no flu!

[Abc123qaz in reply to thb4747]

Thank you. I have flu jab arranged for 2nd Oct. Glad to know you are doing well after 3 yrs on Venetoclax I’m just a few months on it and starting Rituximab next month!!

[janvog]

I have well managed CLL with IMBRUVICA 420. My hematologist said: "Yes get the high potency flu shot!" I went to the supermarket two days ago and their pharmacy section, filled out a form. The pharmacist came ten minutes later and applied the shot. No cost, plus I got a $ 10 gift card. Now two days later - completely normal, even the site.

[Green202]

Should you take a break with Imbruvica if you will take the flu vaccine?