At a glance
Cancer patients and survivors may be at higher risk of flu complications. So it’s important for their caregivers and family members to take steps to prevent flu from spreading.
Get a flu shot!
The single best way to protect against flu is to get vaccinated each year. Get a flu shot every year, and encourage your loved one with cancer to get one, too.
Help stop the spread of germs
People with flu can spread it to others. Flu viruses can be found in most infected people beginning the day before symptoms develop and 5 to 7 days after becoming sick. That means that you may be able to spread flu to someone else before you know you are sick, as well as while you are sick.
Help stop the spread of germs by:
- Avoiding close contact with people who are sick.
- Staying home from work, school, and errands when you are sick.
- Covering your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze.
- Washing your hands or using hand sanitizer often.