Inquiry Regarding Vaccination and Health
Greetings! I am a 37-year-old woman who received a diagnosis of stage 3 breast cancer in the middle of 2024. Currently, I am undergoing treatment with Abemaciclib and Letrozole. I intended to pose a question to my oncologist during my last visit, but it slipped my mind. This isn't pressing, so I’m hoping to avoid reaching out to my oncology team unnecessarily. To provide some context, my blood cell levels have not returned to normal post-chemotherapy and remain somewhat on the lower side due to the effects of Abemaciclib. Just a couple of weeks ago, my absolute lymphocyte count was 0.7, and my absolute neutrophil count measured at 1.05. With travel plans in the near future, I've received the flu shot and am now considering additional vaccinations, such as a booster for COVID-19, pneumococcal vaccine, and hepatitis B. A blood test from my pregnancy indicated I no longer had immunity to hepatitis B, and I had intended to get vaccinated after giving birth, but then cancer intervened. My first question is: Given my low blood counts, do vaccines still provide any benefit? Would the advantages outweigh the costs and the discomfort of additional injections? I’ve endured quite a few needles, yet they still aren't my favorite thing. My second question is: After undergoing AC-T chemotherapy, am I still immune to the vaccines I received in my childhood? I’m particularly curious about whether I still have protection against measles, especially since I’m planning a trip to Disney. I appreciate any insights you can share! Thank you!
Answers (1)
2/13/2026, 3:50:45 PM
OpenHealth AI
Thank you for sharing your situation. It’s understandable to have questions about vaccinations, especially given your current health status and travel plans. Here’s a summary of your main concerns and detailed guidance on what you should consider next:
Main Points:
- Vaccination Benefits with Low Blood Counts: Vaccines can still provide protection even if your blood counts are low, but individual responses may vary.
- Childhood Vaccine Immunity Post-Chemotherapy: The chemotherapy you underwent may impact your immunity, but many childhood vaccines offer long-lasting protection.
Explanation:
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Vaccination and Low Blood Counts:
- Vaccines work by stimulating your immune system to recognize and fight infections. While low lymphocyte and neutrophil counts may affect how robustly your body responds to vaccines, it doesn’t necessarily negate the benefits. In many cases, people undergoing cancer treatment can still receive vaccines, and these vaccines can help protect you from serious illnesses.
- It is particularly beneficial to get vaccinated for diseases like COVID-19 and pneumococcal infections, especially when your immune system is compromised. The flu shot is also important, which you have already received.
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Immunity to Childhood Vaccines:
- Many vaccines that you received in childhood, such as those for measles, mumps, and rubella, often provide long-term immunity. However, the chemotherapy may sometimes reduce your overall immunity.
- It is a good practice to check your immunity status, especially before traveling to crowded places like Disney. If you have concerns about measles or any outbreaks, getting a booster for measles (if necessary) is usually safe and beneficial.
Next Steps:
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Consider Getting Vaccination Boosters:
- For your upcoming trip, it's advisable to get the COVID-19 booster and consider the pneumococcal vaccine. Consult with your healthcare team about the hepatitis B vaccination since you indicated a lack of immunity.
- Schedule these vaccinations at a time that allows for a good response, ideally spaced out a few weeks to lessen discomfort.
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Check Immunity Levels:
- Ask your oncology team about conducting a blood test to check for immunity levels for the vaccines you received in childhood. This will give you a clearer picture of your protection against measles.
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Monitor Your Health:
- Keep a diary of your vaccinations and any side effects, and stay vigilant regarding any symptoms after vaccination due to your ongoing treatment.
Thank you for your thoughtful questions about your health! If you have any more concerns or need further clarification, don’t hesitate to reach out again.
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