The H1N1 Virus and Cancer Patients

What You Need to Know About the H1N1 If You Have Cancer

The novel 2009 H1N1 virus, also referred to as the "swine flu," is a major health concern for most people -- especially people with cancer. Many myths exist about the H1N1 virus, but one thing remains true: it can be serious and fatal in those with compromised immune systems. This includes people undergoing chemotherapy and radiation therapy.

You should also know that more common strains of seasonal flu can be equally serious in cancer patients who are undergoing these cancer treatments, so taking extra precautions during flu season is highly recommended.

What Do I Need to Do to Reduce My Risk of the H1N1 Virus?

There are several things you can to do to reduce your risk of being exposed to the H1N1 virus. It is important that other people who you live with or associate with on a daily basis follow these tips to help reduce your exposure. These are very simple tips that don't require much more effort than your oncologist probably already recommends.

• Wash hands with soap and warm water frequently. Don't forget areas under wristwatches or rings.

• If you soap and water are not available, use an alcohol based hand sanitizer. Soap and water is always the first choice, but if you can't wash your hands, at least use a hand sanitizer. These products are usually found in the liquid soap aisles of retailers. They come in small, travel sizes and also on keychains.

• Cough or sneeze into your shoulder or arm and ask that those around you to do the same.

• Avoid people who have flu-like symptoms. If you have come in contact with someone with the flu, alert your doctor. There is no need to panic, but your doctor may want to give provide preventive care, depending on your exposure and its risks.

• Don't touch your eyes, nose, or mouth. If you have to do so, try to wash hands before and after.

• Consider limiting your time with small children, if possible. Children may be contagious for longer periods of time than adults. They are also exposed more frequently to viruses because of the amount of people they are around every day, and because their personal hygiene standards generally aren't as strict. If you are a parent, teach your children how to properly wash his hands and cough into his shoulders or arms.

Should I Get the H1N1 Vaccine?

People with compromised immune systems are considered to be priority recipients of the H1N1 vaccine. Most people with cancer are safe to get the vaccine, but always check with your doctor beforehand. You should also know that the H1N1 vaccine will not provide any protection against the regular seasonal flu. This is a separate vaccine and is also recommended for most people with cancer. Again, always check with your doctor first.

What Are the Symptoms of H1N1?

The symptoms of the H1N1 virus are very similar to the season flu. They include:

• fever
  
• coughing
  
• fatigue
  
• diarrhea and/or vomiting
  
• runny nose
  
• body aches/headaches
  
• sore throat

If you begin to experience these flu symptoms, it is very important to call your doctor. Even better, you and your doctor should develop a course of action in the event you develop flu-like symptoms or are exposed to someone with the H1N1 virus. You probably already have a plan in action already if you are undergoing chemotherapy or radiation therapy to monitor for signs of illness and infection anyway, but it's important to know in what event your doctor wants you to go into the emergency room.

_Source:

American Cancer Society. Swine Flu. 08/28/2009. Accessed October 12, 2009.
http://www.cancer.org/docroot/ETO/content/ETO_1_2x_Swine_Flu.asp

CDC. General Information About 2009 H1N1 Vaccines. July 15, 2009. Accessed October 12, 2009.
http://www.cdc.gov/h1n1flu/vaccination/general.htm