Expert Available: The Flu and Cancer Patients, a High-Risk Group for Complications

Newswise — Having or surviving cancer does not put you at an increased risk for contracting the flu, reports the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, but it does, however, put you at an increased risk of complications like pneumonia, hospitalization, and even death because of a weakened immune system due to disease or medication.

“This is definitely a concern in our population,” said Tiffany Avery, M.D., Assistant Professor of Medical Oncology at Thomas Jefferson University Hospital in Philadelphia. “Flu shots are recommended as a first line of defense. Other precautions would include frequent hand washing and avoiding crowds and family/friends with symptoms. If someone in the household contracts flu, that person should wear a mask to try to reduce transmission."

If you would like to interview Dr. Avery on cancer and the flu, please contact Steve Graff, stephen.graff@jefferson.edu, 215-955-5251

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