Staying Well During COVID-19
A Guide for Cancer Patients and Their Caregivers and Family Members
Updated March 16, 2022
Cancer patients and survivors may have a higher risk of getting COVID-19 and other infections. They, and people who live with and take care of them, should take steps to protect their health.
Cancer Patients and Survivors
If you are one of the people at increased risk for serious COVID-19 illness, it’s especially important for you to take action to reduce the risk of getting COVID-19. This video explains who is at increased risk and offers tips to help you avoid getting sick.
If you have cancer now or had cancer in the past, you may need to take special steps to protect your health. This is especially important if you are being treated with chemotherapy. Chemotherapy can weaken your immune system and make you more likely to get an infection. For the same reason, the infection may be more serious for you.
Be Sure You Are Up to Date with COVID-19 Vaccines
- Get your COVID-19 vaccination.
- If you have a moderately or severely weakened immune system, get one more vaccine dose when you are eligible.
- If you’re already vaccinated, get a booster shot when you are eligible.
Protect Yourself and Others
- Wear a mask that fits well when around others, and ask them to do the same.
- Wash your hands often.
- Avoid poorly ventilated spaces and crowds. Bring in fresh air by opening windows and doors, if possible.
- Stay 6 feet away from those in your home who may be sick, and from anyone who doesn’t live with you.
When you visit a person who has cancer, take these steps to lower the chance of spreading COVID-19.
Be Prepared in Case You Get Sick
Keep over-the-counter medicines on hand to treat fever and other symptoms in case you get sick. Ask your doctor about getting extra prescription medicines in case you need to stay home for a long time.
If You Get Sick
If you get a fever or other symptoms of an infection, take these important steps right away—
- Call your doctor. Before going to a doctor or hospital, call and tell them your symptoms, especially if you have a fever. Be sure to tell them if you’re getting chemotherapy.
- Separate yourself from others. Try to stay in one room and away from other people in your home. Use a separate bathroom if one is available.
Caregivers, Family Members, and Others
If you live with or take care of someone who has cancer, it’s important for you to take steps to keep yourself healthy. If you get COVID-19, you could pass it to the person who has cancer.
- Get your COVID-19 vaccination and booster shot.
- Wear a mask that fits well when around the person with cancer or other people.