Evaluating how pediatric cancer patients respond to the flu vaccine
Official title: Response to Influenza Vaccination in Pediatric Oncology Patients
Run by St. Jude Children's Research Hospital · NCT05384288 · Data updated 2026-11-12
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 type | Observational |
|---|---|
| Ages | Any age to 18 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Enrollment | 150 (estimated) |
| Sponsor | St. Jude Children's Research Hospital Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Memphis, Tennessee) |
| Status | Recruiting |
| Started | October 7, 2022 |
| Main results expected | December 1, 2027 |
| Study ends | December 1, 2029 |
| Registry record updated | June 12, 2026 |
| Trial ID | NCT05384288 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
Is this trial a fit for you?
✓Likely a 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.
✕Probably not a fit
Patients who have previously received at least one dose of the current seasonal influenza vaccine will not benefit from this study.
A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.
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.
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 gone: While studies on vaccine responses in immunocompromised populations exist, this specific approach focusing on pediatric oncology patients is relatively novel.
Who can join: the full rules
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 it's running
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St. Jude Children's Research Hospital
Memphis, Tennessee, United States Recruiting
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Ramilo Octavio, MD — St. Jude Children's Research Hospital
- Study coordinator: Ramilo Octavio, MD
- Email: referralinfo@stjude.org
- Phone: 866-278-5833
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How to take part
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
- Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.