Evaluating how pediatric cancer patients respond to the flu vaccine

Response to Influenza Vaccination in Pediatric Oncology Patients

Observational St. Jude Children's Research Hospital · NCT05384288

This study is testing how well the flu vaccine works in children with cancer to see if it helps them build immunity against the virus.

Quick facts

Study typeObservational
Enrollment150 (estimated)
AgesN/A to 18 Years
SexAll
SponsorSt. Jude Children's Research Hospital Academic / other
Locations1 site (Memphis, Tennessee)
Trial IDNCT05384288 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This observational study aims to assess the immunogenicity of the seasonal influenza vaccine in pediatric oncology patients, specifically those diagnosed with hematological malignancies. The study will be conducted in two stages, starting with a feasibility phase to determine the viability of a larger longitudinal study. Participants will have blood samples collected up to six times over the course of a year to measure their immune response to the vaccine. Additionally, information regarding their underlying health conditions and flu testing will be gathered from medical records.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this study are children aged 18 years or younger who are receiving care for hematological malignancies at St. Jude Children's Research Hospital.

Not a fit: Patients who have previously received at least one dose of the current seasonal influenza vaccine will not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could enhance the understanding of vaccine responses in pediatric cancer patients, potentially leading to improved vaccination strategies.

How similar studies have performed: While studies on vaccine responses in immunocompromised populations exist, this specific approach focusing on pediatric oncology patients is relatively novel.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Patient ≤ 18 years old at the time of consent receiving care at St. Jude Children's Research Hospital
* Diagnosed with a hematological malignancy
* Eligible to receive the current seasonal influenza vaccine

Exclusion Criteria:

• Previously received at least one dose of the current seasonal influenza vaccine.

Where this trial is running

Memphis, Tennessee

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Conditions Hematologic MalignancyPediatric CancerTransplant-Related CancerInfluenza infection
Last reviewed 2026-06-10 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.