It is important for cancer patients whose immune systems are suppressed due to the disease and medications to protect themselves from all kinds of infections. Therefore, we will try to answer frequently asked questions about flu for cancer patients in this article.
When it comes to infectious diseases such as flu, cancer patients are the most vulnerable to infection. According to the statement of the disease control centers in the USA, this year's flu season is on its way to become the most common flu season of the last decade.
What should cancer patients do if they think they are infected with the flu? What symptoms should you pay attention to and when should you see a doctor?
The biggest concern of patients and their relatives is that there is a high risk of developing serious complications when they catch the flu. If you have a cancer diagnosis for which you are being treated and you begin to experience symptoms such as fever, runny nose, sore throat or cough - especially if your immune system is compromised - you need to see a doctor immediately. There is treatment for the flu to control your symptoms. However, this medicine must be given as early as 48 to 72 hours after the onset of your symptoms.
Is it safe for cancer patients to get vaccinated during treatment?
Any cancer It is generally safe to get the flu vaccine for patients diagnosed with the strain. However, since the immune system is weak in patients diagnosed with cancer and under active treatment, the flu vaccine may not provide as much protection as it does in healthy people. It is important to consider each case individually. For this reason, we recommend that you talk to your doctor before getting vaccinated.
What should a cancer patient do when a friend or close relative he or she is in close contact with catches the flu?
The cancer patient has flu. He/she must stay away from the person or persons with the disease and separate the place or room he/she is in. No contact is the best precaution. However, if you think you may have had excessive contact with someone with confirmed flu (more than 10 minutes at a distance of less than one meter), tell your doctor immediately. You may need to use oseltamivir to prevent flu or relieve symptoms.
Getting vaccinated does not prevent getting flu. However, it may help you get over the flu more mildly.
Besides the flu vaccine, what else can cancer patients under treatment do to protect themselves?
Wearing a mask, if necessary. It is important for protection to use gloves and wash your hands frequently throughout the day. Avoid crowded areas. It is best for your health to stay away from people who have the flu or may have the flu.
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