COVID-19 is a concern for everyone. But cancer patients are among those at highest risk of contracting this virus–or developing a bad case of it. This is because most cancer patients have immune systems that have been weakened by cancer and its treatments. Cardinale B. Smith, MD, PhD, Chief Quality Officer for Cancer, shares information cancer patients need to know about COVID-19.
How can patients and caregivers protect themselves from COVID-19?
The most important thing that patients and caregivers can do is practice really great hand hygiene. Make sure to wash your hands for at least 20 seconds. You’ve probably heard about singing the Happy Birthday song twice; that is usually the right amount of time to soap and rinse your hands. If you are using hand sanitizer, make sure to pick one that is more than 60 percent alcohol.
Someone with cancer should limit contact with anyone who might be sick. Avoid large crowds and practice social distancing. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention defines social distancing, in terms of COVID-19, as keeping six feet away from others. That means avoiding subways, buses, and other mass transit, and staying at home as much as possible. You can turn events that often involve large groups into virtual activities. Instead of going to the gym, for instance, you could watch a YouTube video and exercise along with it.
Which cancer patients are at greatest risk?
All cancer patients are at increased risk but patients at greatest risk are those who have recently had a bone marrow transplant or have blood cancers such as leukemia, lymphoma, and myeloma. Patients with these conditions tend to receive medications with a high concentration of immunosuppressants. If you finished treatment a while ago, you are probably not at increased risk.
What should I do if I have symptoms of COVID-19?
Cancer patients with symptoms that suggest COVID-19, such as coughing and high fever, should call their oncology team for expert guidance. Your oncologist is most likely to know if your symptoms suggest COVID-19 or if they are likely to be the flu, another respiratory infection, or if the symptoms are in line with your cancer diagnosis. Your cancer team can tell you if you need to come into the office to be checked.
What if I am feeling anxious?
Anxiety around COVID-19 is really high. Remember that for the vast majority of people who contract COVID-19, the virus is not fatal. Try not to let your fears get the best of you. Keep calm and practice the basic tips we talked about. That is your best bet, in terms of prevention.