Hi folks. Simple question - should Chronic lymphocytic leukaemia (CLL) patients have vaccination for RSV (Respiratory Syncytial Virus)? And, if so, is it available on the NHS? My GP seemed unfamiliar with this. But it seems to me that getting this vaccination should be essential. See
1 Like
Hi @Murdoch,
How are you keeping? You’ve asked a really good question & I’m pleased you were able to talk this through with your GP.
It appears that the risk across vulnerable groups is being monitored and from the JCVI guidance it looks like there is a potential for a future immunisation programme to be developed.
It also appears that 3 RSV vaccine products have been in development with potential licensure timelines for 2023 or early 2024. Therefore it may be a case of watch this space.
Best Wishes, Lauran
1 Like
Thanks, Lauran. I’m al most sure I read on the Chronic lymphocytic leukaemia (CLL) forum on the Health Unlocked site that someone in UK had already paid to have the vaccination done privately. And it seems that, as you say, it’s likely to be a coming regular programme on the NHS for vulnerable groups like ours. Since we are indeed so vulnerable to infections, particularly of the chest, I can’t really see anything but good coming from it. I’ll talk to my haematologist about it next. But, in advance of that, I just wondered on here whether UK folk are routinely getting it yet. Thanks for your useful summary.
I’m fine thanks. Probably nearing starting treatment and torn between opting for V&O or Zanubrutinib.
1 Like
Hi all,
In case helpful to anyone reading this thread - we have added new information about the RSV vaccination in the UK for September 2024 onwards to our website here: Blood cancer and staying safe | Blood Cancer UK
It covers information about the vaccine itself as well as eligibility criteria for this winter.
If you are eligible for the RSV vaccine but have questions or concerns about having it, you should ask your medical team. The vaccine aims to prevent you contracting RSV illnesses, especially over the winter, which can lead to dangerous lung infections in older people. If you are immunocompromised because of blood cancer or its treatment, it’s even more important to protect yourself from infection.
If you aren’t eligible for the RSV vaccine because you turned 80 before 1 September 2024, but are worried about your risk of infection, there is still lots you can do to protect yourself. Make sure you get all the other vaccines you are eligible for described on this page, and read our information about reducing your risk of all infections.
Please do let us know if you have any further questions.
Kind regards,
Ali
(Digital Support Services Officer)
2 Likes