Whooping cough

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I have recently finished chemo, I was diagnosed with Ovarian Cancer. I am currently talking Olaparib. I my 1yr old granddaughter whom I help to look after I am told has whooping cough. Am I at risk still looking after her?x

  • Hi ,

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  • Hi Bettyboop.

    My name is Joanne and I’m one of the Cancer Information Nurse Specialists on the Macmillan Support Line .

    Thank you for getting in touch and welcome to the online community. You might find it useful to have a look at our Ovarian cancer forum for more information and support.

    Olaparib is a targeted therapy drug used in the treatment of  Ovarian cancer . One of the common side effects of this drug is an increased risk of infection. This is because the treatment can reduce the number of white cells in your blood. These cells are an important part of your body’s immune system which enables you to fight off and recover from infection.

    Here at Macmillan, we are separate to the NHS and would always advise you to speak directly to your healthcare team in your circumstances.

    Whooping cough is a contagious disease that can be spread very easily and can cause significant breathing difficulties or pneumonia. It is important that you minimise your risks of picking up any infection by avoiding contact with anybody who has a confirmed infection until you have spoken to your healthcare team for specific advice.

    I hope your granddaughter recovers quickly from her illness and is feeling better soon.

    Please do let us know if there is anything else that we can help with.

    Regards

    Ref JH/IY

    Joanne H - Cancer Information Nurse Specialist

    Remember you can also speak with the Macmillan Support Line team of experts. Phone free on 0808 808 00 00 (7 days a week, 8am-8pm) or by email.