When is it safe for me to do food shopping?

Hi superkevin,

Congratulatons on finishing chemo, I know the “pleasure” that comes with knowing you ain’t got to have any more of that stuff!

Ive had a good few people ask me if I’m high risk category with corona.  I’m 16 months post chemo, I’m pretty certain I’m not high risk, I’m disease free, with no underlying health conditions, known.

I’m really not sure how long after chemo the immune system is back to full power.  

latchbrook this would appear a fairly generic chemo question, has the rest of the Macmillan forum discussed this anywhere?

I know I felt back to full strength about 6 weeks post BEP.  I’d suggest as much caution as possible for as long as possible.

take care

dan

Prior to the covid-19 scare, I was told by my haemotologist that my immune system would continue to be comprised for at least 6 months after I finished chemotherapy.

I expect that much will depend on your specific chemo protocol and when your bloods return to normal.  Your consultant is best placed to give you accurate guidance.

I'm about to finish chemo and I'm less than thrilled that covid-19 will delay even further the time when I can go shopping.  I'd promised myself a trip to the garden centre as a post-chemo treat.

Hi and

You're right that this is getting discussed a lot in the various cancer groups but, unfortunately, there isn't a one size fits all answer.

As every cancer is different, it can be weeks, months or years before the immune system is fully restored. The best people to ask this question of would be your hospital team as they'll know your individual circumstances.

You could also take a look at this information on cancer and coronavirus that Macmillan have produced.

Take care both of you

Hi thanks so much for the reply.

Yes, I will consult with the cancer team at the hospital.

And I suppose everyone is different. I will continue isolating until I get specific advice

I hope you are well.