Researchers reported at ESMO and in accompanying analyses that mRNA COVID‑19 vaccines can enhance the efficacy of immune checkpoint inhibitors. MD Anderson presented retrospective data showing patients who received an mRNA vaccine within 100 days of starting immunotherapy had longer survival than unvaccinated peers. A University of Florida study found concordant immunologic signals suggesting vaccine‑induced immune activation may complement anti‑tumor responses. Both teams cautioned that findings are observational and need prospective validation, but the convergence of clinical and laboratory data has prompted interest in deliberate peri‑treatment vaccination strategies in oncology. The results have immediate translational implications for trial design and for counseling patients about vaccine timing when they begin checkpoint inhibitor therapy.