quick question its that time of year again for flu and covid vaccinations. Is it ok to get these while on Jakavi. I think its ok wondering if anyone has experience of getting vaccinations while on Jakavi. Thanks.
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Hello @Liz59. This is a non medical opinion, but I have myelofibrosis and was taking Jakavi (Ruxolitinib) for over five years. I have now been switched to an alternative drug but whilst taking Jakavi I had every vaccination on offer including flu and Covid vaccinations with no problem. However if you are unsure I suggest asking a member of your medical team for advice. Hope this helps. Warm wishes Willow x
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Hi @Liz59
Thanks for your comment and as you say I’m sure lots of people are starting to think about vaccinations again at this time of year.
Here’s our webpage on staying safe with blood cancer, which includes a breakdown of information about the various vaccines, including flu, covid and updated information about the RSV vaccine: Blood cancer and staying safe | Blood Cancer UK
Our colleagues at Macmillan have this information about Jakavi, Ruxolitinib (Jakavi®) | Macmillan Cancer Support which suggests that doctors often do recommend covid and flu vaccines for people with cancer.
But we would suggest talking to your medical team for advice about having vaccinations in advance. They will know your individual case and risk levels to know what’s best for you.
Hope this helps,
Kind regards,
Ali
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Willow and Ali thank you for your kind responses and links to information. Willow I hope your alternative drug works for you and no nasty side effects. Best wishes
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For what my non-medical opinion’s worth, I had the latest Pfizer-Moderna COVID-19 and trivalent flu vaccinations last week, although I don’t take Jakavi (I’m on hydroxyurea).
I needed to stay in bed the following day as I developed strong flu-like symptoms. First time for that response after COVID-19/flu vaccines, but I had them separately last year rather than together like this time.
A strong reaction is meant to show that our immune system is responding really well, or so I’ve read, but please correct me if I’ve got that wrong, dear nurses.
Maybe have them at different times? I also developed an epic bruise at the injection site that’s still there a week later, but then I bruise more easily now with Polycythaemia vera (PV).
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Duncan sorry to hear you had a reaction to the vaccines. I got them separately last year and will do so again. I have had a reaction every time to the covid vaccine so this is why I get them separately.
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Aw thanks @Liz59, those nasty symptoms faded quickly so it’s fine again, and now I’m more protected against those dratted viruses again. You’re clearly wise enough to keep the vaccinations separate, which I’ll do again next year!