Anyone can get the flu. That’s why everyone ages 6 months and older should get a flu shot every year.
The flu can be very serious for people with cancer. Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center (MSK) infectious disease specialist Monika Shah answers common questions people with cancer may have about the flu. She also explains why it’s important for you and your caregivers to protect yourselves against the virus.
Is the flu really that bad? Is it just a bad cold?
No. The flu is more dangerous than a cold. It can make even healthy people very sick. In the United States alone, hundreds of thousands of people go to the hospital with the flu each year. Tens of thousands die.
People with cancer are more likely to get very sick from the flu. Cancer and its treatments can weaken your immune system (called being immunocompromised). This makes it hard for your body to fight off the virus.
Who should get a flu shot? Can I get one even if I have cancer?
The best way to protect yourself and your family is to get a flu shot every year. A flu shot may not be 100% effective. But if you do get the flu, it can make your symptoms milder.
Most people with cancer should get a flu shot, no matter what type of treatment they’re getting.
Getting the shot also lowers the chance that you’ll pass the flu to others. This protects the people around you who are more likely to get very sick from the flu. This includes young children, older adults, and people with cancer. Everyone who lives with you or cares for you should get a flu shot, too.
Can I get the flu from a flu shot?
No, you can’t catch the flu from a flu shot. Most flu shots are made from a killed (inactivated) form of the flu virus. The shots cannot cause infection and illness. The most common side effects of a flu shot are soreness where you got the shot, minor aches, or a slight fever. Flu shots have been proven safe and effective.
Flu vaccine also comes as a nasal spray (a spray you put in your nose). It’s made from a live, weakened flu virus. If you have cancer or are getting cancer treatment, talk with your doctor about which flu vaccine is right for you.
MSK infectious disease specialist Monika Shah debunks common myths about the flu vaccine.
When should I get a flu shot?
The best time to get a flu shot is in September or October. This helps protect you throughout the flu season. If you miss that window, you should still get the shot anytime during the season to stay protected.
Where should I go to get a flu shot?
It’s easy to get a shot. Contact your doctor’s office or go to one of the many local pharmacies that offer flu shots.
What additional steps can I take to protect myself from the flu?
You can protect yourself from the flu the same way you would from a cold. Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, or use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer. Do not touch your eyes, nose, or mouth with unwashed hands. Stay away from people who are sick. If someone in your household has symptoms, keep your distance from them. If you can, stay in a separate room.
If you have flu symptoms, such as fever, chills, cough, sore throat, or body aches, call your care team right away. Your doctor may test you for the flu. If you have it, they can give you antiviral medicine (medicine that fights viruses). This medicine can make the flu less serious. It works best when you start it early.
