March 15, 2021
A recent study suggests that blood cancer patients might not have a good response to the first dose of the COVID-19. We understand that this might make worrying reading for many WM patients, their friends and family. We’re here to help you understand what this means for you.
Although on first reading the results of the study, which shows a worse response to the first vaccine in people with blood cancer, may seem alarming, they are far from conclusive.
The study in question included very few blood cancer patients, not enough to draw solid conclusions. We’re also aware that it only looks at the first dose of the vaccine, and there are suggestions that protection is improved after the second dose. There is still a big gap in our knowledge, and studies continue to learn more about the vaccine’s effectiveness in different groups of patients, including those with blood cancer.
It’s still vitally important that you continue shielding as per government advice, as well as attending your vaccine appointments. After all, even though the study suggests the response isn’t as good in blood cancer patients, it still indicates that the first dose of the vaccine provides some protection. A small level of protection is still better than none.
WMUK continues to work with our expert clinicians to keep our COVID-19 information up to date. Alongside other blood cancer organisations, we have outlined our concerns about the reports into the efficacy of the vaccine to policy-makers to seek clarification.
If you have any questions or concerns about the COVID-19 vaccine, please don’t hesitate to get in touch with us. You can also find a complete COVID-19 vaccine Q&A from our WM specialists.