While we continue to pay so much attention to COVID-19 precautions, the regular cold and flu season has quietly arrived. This season typically begins in October and peaks between December and March. While colds and the flu are mostly just an unpleasant nuisance to many people, those who are immunocompromised, such as those with breast cancer, are at a higher risk of complications. Luckily, many of the same precautions we’ve grown accustomed to throughout the pandemic can also help protect you from and limit the spread of colds and the flu. This includes wearing a face mask, staying home if you feel sick, regular hand washing, and, if your doctor recommends it, getting an annual flu shot. Read on for more information about why it is important for those with breast cancer to protect themselves from seasonal colds and flus and advice for if you do get sick.
Nutrition Guide For Breast Cancer
The right nutrition and exercise can help support your immune system to avoid colds and the flu. Read more for suggestions of foods that can boost your immunity. Read More.
From Around The Web
“The biggest concern [around the flu] is that cancer patients are at a higher risk of developing serious complications if they do get the flu. So if you have cancer and start experiencing symptoms like a fever, runny nose, sore throat or coughing — especially if you have a compromised immune system — see a doctor right away. There’s a good treatment for the flu, but it has to be administered early, within 48 to 72 hours of the onset of symptoms. If you suspect you might have the flu, you should also be checked for other viruses.”
Oseltamivir, sold under the brand name Tamiflu, is safe for everyone who has tested positive for the flu, including cancer patients. Additionally, it’s safe for patients with any type of cancer to get the flu vaccine. However, the vaccine doesn’t work as well among cancer patients as it does in those without cancer, particularly those on active treatment. “It’s also important for cancer patients to get the shot, as opposed to the nasal mist, because the mist is a live-attenuated vaccine and may actually cause the flu in immunocompromised patients and not be as effective as the shot.” Read More.