H1N1 Swine Flu Declared a Pandemic - Take Precautions

HINI Swine Flu has been declared a pandemic by the World Health Organization. If you're in treatment for breast cancer, you should be taking extra precautions. Chemotherapy treatments can lower your immune system and cause you to be neutropenic. You won't be able to fight against germs as well as you normally would. Avoid situations where germs are likely to be plentiful. When your blood counts return to normal, just use common sense to keep away from germs. Here's some ways to take precautions:

• Stay home whenever possible. Delegate tasks, ask for help.
• If you develop a fever of 100.5F or higher, call your doctor immediately and drink plenty of fluids.
• Cough or sneeze into a tissue and then toss it out, or turn your face into the crook of your elbow, to contain any germs.
• Wash your hands often with soap and water or alcohol sanitizer - this will kill most germs.
• Avoid people who have any flu-like symptoms.
• If you feel flu symptoms starting, don't wait - call your doctor or nurse practitioner and ask for advice or an appointment.

Radiation treatments for breast cancer can cause swallowing problems, coughing, or shortness of breath. This is because radiation may affect your esophagus, throat, or lungs. Let your doctor know, if you're having these problems. This kind of cough is not a flu symptom, but if you are concerned about your cough or any other symptoms, such as fatigue, pain, or skin changes, you should ask your doctor for help.

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