Chemo and Coronavirus

[Stoof78]

Hello, my DH starts Chemo on Monday for 12 weeks. Concurrently my work are being a bit unflinching about taking time off for Coronavirus (I work in construction in an open plan office with managers going in and out all day to attend sites). I am taking Monday off to drive him to hospital, should I also take more time off/self isolate for the length of his Chemo to keep him safe? I'm very worried about the situation....

I think you have to do what you feel you need to. My husband is currently undergoing chemo and with everything that has happened we've chosen to isolate/social distance as a family until after his chemo is over. My husband will only be going to his hospital appointments and chemo and otherwise we will stay at home. I was worried about regular infections at the beginning as we have three young children but this is an even more worrying time now. A few months at home is easily doable to reduce the risks. Good luck to your hubby.

The government are supposedly providing more information from Monday for those at highest risk of severe illness from coronavirus. They will be contacted directly by the NHS. That group includes "people with cancer who are undergoing active chemotherapy or radiotherapy", so hopefully you'll receive more information shortly.

www.gov.uk/government/publications/covid-19-guidance-on-social-distancing-and-for-vulnerable-people/guidance-on-social-distancing-for-everyone-in-the-uk-and-protecting-older-people-and-vulnerable-adults

I'm in the same situation, and the entire family are self-isolating. But of course that's not possible for everyone.

I’m having chemo, I’m only leaving the house for hospital appointments. My two year old is staying at home all the time as well. My DP is on annual leave right now but has to go back to work next week (not possible for him to work from home). I think I’m going to move to PILs (who have agreed to completely isolate with us) with DD, because we are worried about him bringing the virus home. It’s scary, and I don’t want our family to be separated, but we feel the risk is too great.

Thank you so much for taking the time to reply, it has really helped. Outside of hospital appointments I am going to self isolate with him as I just can't take the risk. It's what I wanted to do but wasn't sure if I was being too intense about the Coronavirus and you've put it in context for me along with the daily influx of news. Thanks again and best wishes to you all.

How are things going for you @Stoof78 ? Hope all is well. We have found ourselves in a similar position. Would be great to hear from others in the same boat.