A current article from BREASTCANCER.ORG posted on September 22, 2020, discusses coronavirus and what women battling breast cancer need to know.
We have all been affected one way or another by COVID-19. It has kept many of us away from family, friends, work, social gatherings, and schools. Whole states have shut down, and quarantines are mandated. For individuals with severe health risks, such as breast cancer, there is a great deal more confusion regarding how to handle the current social environment. While the CDC says that most individuals will not become too ill from COVID-19, those with lower immune systems are at higher risk of severe illness if they contract COVID-19 (Breastcancer.org, 2020).
We all must have a firm understanding of what coronavirus is, how it is spread, the symptoms, and how we can protect ourselves and our families from this virus. Coronavirus is a respiratory illness spread through direct close contact (under 6 feet) with others. It is highly contagious, with individuals being infectious days before they start exhibiting symptoms. Research from China shows that many individuals never experience any symptoms but are still infectious. Some but not all of the symptoms of COVID-19 include:
- Loss of taste or sense of smell
- Fever
- Cough
- Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing
- Headache
It is essential that safety precautions are followed by all individuals but especially by those at high risk. Social distancing, handwashing, and wearing a mask can limit exposure. Other precautions include:
- Avoiding public areas when possible, including public transportation, stores, and social gatherings.
- Work from home
- Stay at least 6 feet away from other individuals
- Do not engage in handshakes, hugs, and kisses in social settings
You will also want to increase your hygiene practices such as handwashing, hand sanitizer, wearing a mask, cleaning and disinfecting surfaces around you, practicing healthy habits, and conducting all medical appointments via Telehealth.
Breastcancer.org. (2020, September 22). Coronavirus (COVID-19): What People With Breast Cancer Need to Know. Retrieved from https://www.breastcancer.org/about_us/press_room/news/coronavirus
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