The recent death of former U.S. Secretary of State Colin Powell from COVID-19 complications added to the existing public debate about the vaccine, despite widespread agreement among healthcare professionals that the shot is effective. Powell, who was vaccinated, according to his family, also had the blood cancer multiple myeloma, which provides crucial context when examining the reasons for his death, according to OSUCCC – James chief medical officer David Cohn, MD, MBA. “The reason why Mr. Powell died is not because of a problem with the COVID vaccine but because many vaccinations are less effective for people with health issues that affect their immune systems, including many types of cancer,” Cohn says. “We know that well above 90 percent of people who get fully vaccinated will not be severely ill or die of COVID-19 after they become infected with the virus. Mr. Powell’s immune system was compromised — he might have needed a third vaccination to provide more protection.” Read on as Cohn explains why Powell’s death shouldn’t undermine public confidence in the COVID-19 vaccine but rather why it provides more evidence of the importance of widespread vaccination to protect cancer patients and others with compromised immune systems and those close to them. How cancer can affect the COVID-19 vaccine “General Powell had multiple myeloma, which is a blood cancer that affects the cells which make antibodies that are helpful in fighting off infection. For blood cancer patients, the response to some vaccines may be significantly less effective than in people with unaffected antibody production. “Individuals with cancer — especially those undergoing cancer treatments like chemotherapy or radiation — and those with other immune-compromising conditions are at higher risk for COVID-19 infection, and for becoming severely ill or even dying as a result.” Who should get a third shot? “The CDC and FDA have recommended that most people above age 11 should get the COVID-19 vaccine. For those who have conditions that compromise their immune systems and have received two mRNA vaccines — the Pfizer and Moderna shots — there's a third vaccination that can be given. It’s important to recognize that these third shots are different than booster shots, which are recommended for people older than 65 and those who work in health care facilities or other jobs that make them uniquely susceptible to COVID-19. “From what's been reported, Mr. Powell had two vaccinations, the second coming in February, and was scheduled for his third shot when he contracted COVID-19. He was not able to receive it because he was hospitalized, and ultimately, he passed away. This should serve as an important message for those who have compromised immune systems — if you've had two mRNA shots, now's the time to get your third because you might not be fully vaccinated.” “We all have a responsibility to get vaccinated” “It's vital that caregivers and others close to immunocompromised patients also be vaccinated. We know that if individuals bring COVID-19 into that environment, those with compromised immune systems could get severely ill or die from coronavirus complications. So, the most effective thing that we can do is to be vaccinated, while also continuing to wash our hands often, wear masks and practice proper social distancing. “We all have a responsibility to ourselves, but also to our friends, loved ones and the community at large, to get vaccinated if we’re able to do so. Also, it’s important to pay close attention to the CDC and FDA regarding recommendations and eligibility for boosters and third shots, as well as age-related changes to vaccination availability.”