The Centers for Disease Control have issued Interim Guidance for reducing the impact of swine influenza A (H1N1).
While they are not recommending now that large community gatherings be cancelled, they do say:
Persons with underlying medical conditions who are at high risk for complications of influenza may wish to consider avoiding large gatherings.
In addition, they strongly recommend that people who have symptoms of influenza-type illness, including coughing or sore throat, contact their doctor first before going to a medical office or hospital. Talk to your oncologist about how to manage your treatment and what symptoms to report during this time of heightened risk for infection.
The CDC says,
Persons who develop influenza-like-illness (ILI) (fever with either cough or sore throat) should be strongly encouraged to self-isolate in their home for 7 days after the onset of illness or at least 24 hours after symptoms have resolved, whichever is longer. Persons who experience ILI and wish to seek medical care should contact their health care providers to report illness (by telephone or other remote means) before seeking care at a clinic, physician’s office, or hospital. Persons who have difficulty breathing or shortness of breath or are believed to be severely ill should seek immediate medical attention.
If you are being treated for cancer or are caring for someone with cancer, please take extra care with:
- Places where there are large groups of people.
- Handwashing — use soap and water and scrub for at least twenty seconds.
- Being around anyone who is coughing or sneezing or has signs of illness.
- Contacting your doctor immediately if you have a fever, sore throat, coughing, or difficulty breathing.
Discuss any other precautions you should take with your doctor. CDC guidance may change as the flu situation changes.
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