It’s no secret that lung cancer survivors are at increased risk for developing severe symptoms and complications from COVID-19. Despite the early summer improvements seen as a result of increased vaccination rates, we are entering a newly difficult and concerning time. As the Delta variant continues its spread, and cases continue to rise, it is important to prioritize your health and safety.
Get the vaccine if your health allows.
The COVID-19 vaccines were designed to prevent severe illness and they are still doing this very well. Whether or not you are living with lung cancer, vaccination is critical to protecting yourself and high risk populations. Talk to your doctor to determine if the COVID-19 vaccination is right for you.
Continue with all of your doctor appointments. Shift to telehealth appointments when possible.
A remarkable outcome of the pandemic has been the shift to virtual work, school, entertainment, and most importantly, telehealth. For appointments that must be in person, it is important to attend to ensure your treatment progresses. As always, be sure to wear your mask and wash or sanitize your hands.
Wear a mask at all indoor gatherings—trips to the grocery store or church.
Despite earlier progress that suggested we would no longer have to wear masks, it is important to start wearing them again. In some cases, there can be infections in vaccinated individuals. It is particularly important to take this additional precaution for lung cancer survivors and their loved ones.
Wash your hands frequently and/or use hand sanitizer.
Although many public spaces have added hand sanitizing stations during the pandemic, we recommend carrying your own in case there are none available.
Take care of your mental health.
Mental health is so important and even has an impact on your physical health. Whenever possible, pause to relax and decompress. You can go for a walk, take a virtual yoga class, or call a loved one. Do you have other ideas? Let us know in the comments!
Got COVID-19 and lung cancer questions? We have answers.
I wonder if somebody can explain to me how the delta virus is being identified. As an Immunologist/Virologist, I have been very confused by these Delta virus statistics as the PCR is not very useful for identifying the original Covid 19 much less the Delta variant. As I understand it, even the CDC/FDA have recently stated they will no longer support the use of the PCR test after December. I would appreciate some information to help me understand what these statements are based on.
I am an 8 yr. Lung cancer survivor & a 3 yr. Survivor of stage 0 breast cancer. I rec’d my first Moderna COVID vaccine in Feb. Followed by the second in Mar. Should I now get the booster shot,?
Hi Virginia, we recommend you talk with your tx team to determine if you fall within the “immunocompromised” definition that would make you eligible for a booster.
I have stage 4 lung cancer and am taking Prednisone for sciatica. I am fully vaccinated.
Am I still at greater risk of a serious bout of a COVID variant? Is traveling to Mexico inadvisable at this point?
Hi Freema, we recommend you consult the CDC and State Department recommendations for travel, and discuss your potential risk with your doctor. We are not in a position to make any suggestions for travel at this time but if you have other questions our HelpLine team can be contacted at 1-800-298-2436.