Who is this page for?
This page may be relevant if you:
- Have a weakened immune system due to illness or medical treatment
- Have had a splenectomy (your spleen has been removed)
- Have a condition that affects how your spleen works
- Are receiving immunosuppressive treatment
- Have certain long-term medical conditions that increase your risk of infection
Protecting yourself against serious infections
Some health conditions and treatments can increase your risk of serious infections.
If you have a weakened immune system (are immunocompromised) or have had a splenectomy (spleen removed), you may be offered additional vaccinations to help protect you from infection and its complications.
Speak to your healthcare professional if you are unsure which vaccinations are recommended for you.
Vaccines you may be offered
Depending on your age and health condition, you may be eligible for one or more of the following vaccines.
Pneumococcal vaccine
People with a weakened immune system or without a functioning spleen are at increased risk of serious pneumococcal infection.
Find out more:
Shingles vaccine
Some individuals with weakened immune systems may be eligible for shingles vaccination at an earlier age than the routine older adult programme.
Find out more:
- Shingles vaccine | nidirect
- The shingles vaccine - to help protect you from the pain of shingles | HSC Public Health Agency
- The shingles vaccine - easy read information about the shingles vaccine | HSC Public Health Agency
RSV vaccine
People with certain health conditions may be at increased risk of complications from RSV infection.
Find out more:
- Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) vaccine for older adults | nidirect
- Your guide to the RSV vaccine for older adults | HSC Public Health Agency
COVID-19 and flu vaccine
The seasonal flu vaccine is recommended every year for many people with underlying health conditions and weakened immune systems.
Find out more:
- Flu vaccine - People with illnesses or health conditions | nidirect
- COVID-19 vaccine - for people with a weakened immune system | HSC Public Health Agency
Additional resources for patients with cancer and blood disorders:
Information for people without a spleen (Splenectomy)
The spleen plays an important role in protecting the body from infection. If you have had your spleen removed, or it is not functioning properly, you are at increased risk of some serious bacterial infections.
It is important to:
- Keep your vaccinations up to date
- Attend appointments when invited
- Speak to your GP or specialist team about any additional vaccines you may need
- Seek medical advice promptly if you become unwell
Further information click: