Thought I would mention this in case anyone else has had a similar experience...

As my dad has cancer, he was advised at his first meeting with the cancer team to get a flu jab as soon as possible. However, there was no suggestion made whatsoever of the need for family (those in close contact with him) to also get vaccinated.

From my perspective, I think there's a need to promote this. While I'm no medical expert, if a vaccinated cancer host comes into contact with someone who has flu, presumably there is still a risk due to their weakened immune system?

For the benefit of anyone reading this who isn't eligible for the free flu vaccine, some Boots pharmacies will do them privately for £12.99 (at the time of writing this). If you search for your nearest Boots pharmacies (store finder) on their website, it states whether they offer the winter flu vaccine.

I think there are a number of other pharmacies that may offer them privately too.

This is a really good point. I was advised to get the flu jab before chemo but no mention of my family. Everyone will be having it in our house since flu can often lead to secondary infections which the vaccine will have no effect on. 

The kids get a nose spray vaccine free at school. I got my flu jab free at boots and my husbands booked privately with them. There were several branches near us offering it and plenty of slots available. Easy peasy.

I’m a year post treatment but my gp surgery says they don’t have me down to have it this year. Seriously considering paying for it. 

I’d pay for it. Small price for a little peace of mind. 

My thoughts too

I'm nearly 4 years post treatment and still get a free flu jab at my GP's. I think its down to the individual surgeries.

If you still have 3 year free prescriptions following cancer treatment, in my opinion the flu jab should come into this category.

I would still pay for it now though if I did not get it free.

River

Being the recipient of three cancers, two under control and one stable, I always ask advice before doing anything that may affect my health. Whilst I was having chemo I was advised not to have the flu jab that year as my immune system was unable to fight of anything, even insect bites. So although I do agree that having the flu jab is important you do need to check first.