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Chicken pox

FormerMember
FormerMember
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I completed TC chemo for breast cancer about 4 months ago and am continuing with herceptin every 3 weeks. My 4 year old has chicken pox, do I need to take any extra precautions when caring for her or am I ok to carry on as usual. I had chicken pox as a child but my husband is worried I might catch it again because he read this can happen to people  with a weakened immune system. 

  • Dear KayZwiebeln,

    Thank you for getting in touch and welcome to our online community, I hope you find it supportive. My name is Jo and I am one of the Cancer Information Nurse Specialists on the Macmillan Support Line. 

    As you are still on cancer treatment and your immune system may be compromised,  we would recommend contacting your hospital team, chemotherapy unit or GP or NHS111 today to let them know that your child has chickenpox and have likely been in contact with the virus. As they can see your medical records and know your treatment history, they will be able to give you the best advice.

    I hope this information is helpful but if you have any more questions please don’t hesitate to get back in touch.

    Best wishes,

    Jo, Cancer Information Nurse Specialist 

    You can also speak with the Macmillan Support Line team of experts. Phone free on 0808 808 0000 (7 days a week, 8am-8pm) or email us. 

    Ref/DC

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