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Unvaccinated grandchildren

Blood Cancers & Disorders | Last Active: 4 days ago | Replies (27)

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@JustinMcClanahan

Hello @gramma62, we must keep in mind the community guidelines, https://connect.mayoclinic.org/blog/about-connect/tab/community-guidelines/, and avoid giving medical advice.

When undergoing treatment for cancers, many patients become immunocompromised which makes their ability to fight infections and recover from illnesses more difficult and sometimes more dangerous. Vaccinations go through rigorous scientific study to prove efficacy and safety to help stave off serious illnesses or reduce their effects on our bodies. However, patients undergoing treatment for cancers cannot always receive vaccinations or become compromised from the treatment, making how they interact with others around them a bit more complicated and difficult.

It is best to consult a medical provider. @shmerdloff, @gingerw and @treehouse5437 offered some good points to @bmoneyc about taking precautions. @bmoneyc, this is a tough situation as I am sure you'd like to visit your grandchildren but need to balance that with protecting yourself as much as possible. Have you had a chance to talk about this with your grandchildren's parents? If you are able, are you able to share with your provider your concerns to see what their thoughts are on protecting yourself in this situation?

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Replies to "Hello @gramma62, we must keep in mind the community guidelines, https://connect.mayoclinic.org/blog/about-connect/tab/community-guidelines/, and avoid giving medical advice...."

I just barely talked to my son and daughter in law and told them about my diagnosis. I did tell them about being immunocompromised and how I just need to be careful not to get sick. They were kind of overwhelmed just with the diagnosis so we didn't get into the vaccination thing--I've got to give them time to process. I will be seeing my specialist in a few weeks and will discuss it, but my initial impression is that I will continue to see the grandkids, wear a mask if needed, and if people are sick we will make alternative plans. I'll update after talking to my doc.