COVID-19 Boosters Reduce Hospitalizations in Cancer Patients Amid Low Uptake

Multiple large retrospective cohort studies have demonstrated that COVID-19 booster vaccines significantly reduce hospitalization rates among cancer patients, a population at heightened risk due to immunosuppression from cancer and its treatments. The monovalent booster was approximately 29% effective in preventing COVID-19 hospitalizations, with one hospitalization prevented per 166 vaccinated individuals, while the bivalent booster showed similar effectiveness but with a higher number needed to vaccinate (451). Despite the evident benefits, booster uptake remains low, with only about 69% receiving the monovalent booster and an alarming 38% receiving the bivalent booster, leading to thousands of preventable hospitalizations. Studies also highlight that patients with hematologic and lung cancers and those undergoing chemotherapy face higher COVID-19 severity and hospitalization risks, underscoring the importance of vaccination prior to infection. Experts emphasize increasing booster uptake and continuous surveillance in this vulnerable group, as cancer patients were largely excluded from early vaccine trials but clearly benefit from booster vaccinations. These findings call for targeted interventions to improve booster vaccination rates among cancer patients to reduce severe COVID-19 outcomes.