I have been diagnosed with prostate cancer which has spread to my lower back for which I am having chemotherapy. I have just been informed that my sister in law with which my wife has had contact with, has just found out she is covid 19 positive.
Am I eligible for free covid 19 tests from a chemist.
Hi Col23761
Thanks for getting in touch and welcome to the online community.
My name is Paula and I am one of the Cancer Information Nurse Specialists on the Macmillan Support Line.
I am sorry to hear about your cancer diagnosis. I can imagine how difficult this must be for you. I hope you’re tolerating your chemotherapy well and not struggling too much with the side-effects.
It’s understandable you’re concerned about catching covid from a family member due to your own compromised immune system whilst having cancer treatment. Trying to avoid the risk of infections is difficult, so it’s important to look after yourself.
For most people covid test are no longer free, however you may still be able to get free covid tests from the NHS if you have a health condition meaning you are eligible for COVID-19 treatment. Here is some further information.
You may find this link useful to look at to see if this still applies in your area. Your local pharmacy might be able to help also. It might be worth asking your chemotherapy unit to see if they any spare covid test you may be able to have.
If you haven’t done already, you may want to book yourself a covid & flu jab. Your hospital team are in an ideal position to let you know the best time to have the vaccines whilst having treatment.
I hope your sister-in-law makes a quick recovery from covid without too many lasting effects.
I hope you find his information helpful.
Ref: PW/JD
