T. Beinert et al., Influenza vaccination of patients with malignancies - Background, recommendations, and alternatives, ONKOLOGIE, 22(1), 1999, pp. 69-72
Between April and December, influenza epidemics occur every year. Patients
suffering from haematological malignancies, solid tumours as well as metabo
lic diseases or cardiopulmonary disorders benefit most from influenza vacci
nation.
Immunisation of patients with neoplastic diseases should be performed 1-2 w
eeks before chemotherapy or at least 4 weeks after chemotherapy. If inocula
tion is indicated during chemotherapy, a booster vaccination is recommended
after 4 weeks. Amantadin, an antiviral compound, provides a chemoprophylax
is in case of Influenza A outbreak and should be given in addition to the i
noculation during an epidemic.