Shielding Myeloma Warriors: 7 Strategies for a Safer Flu and COVID Season
Flu and COVID-19 can be serious for anyone, but for people living with multiple myeloma, respiratory virus season deserves extra attention. Myeloma itself can weaken the immune system, and some treatments can further reduce the body's ability to fight infection. That doesn't mean you have to spend the season afraid to leave your home. A few practical precautions, along with guidance from your healthcare team, can help reduce your risk while allowing you to continue living your life. Here are seven strategies to consider during flu and COVID season. 1. Talk to Your Healthcare Team About Vaccines Vaccination remains an important tool for reducing the risk of severe illness from influenza and COVID-19. Because myeloma and its treatments can affect how strongly the immune system responds to vaccines, talk with your oncology team about which vaccines are appropriate and the best timing for receiving them. This can be particularly important around treatments such as stem cell transpl...