Coronavirus and returning back to work

[TM1972]

I have Hairy Cell Leukaemia and have been recovering from chemotherapy treatment since 18th January. Apart from the fatigue i’ve been contemplating returning back to work, however i work in a busy office environment and am confused with the information i’m reading. Bloodwise now state anybody with blood cancer and a weakened immune system should stay home for 12 weeks. Can anybody help?

[HAIRBEAR_UK Administrator]

Hi TM1972 thanks for posting, it is understandable that you find this very confusing as information has moved quickly over the past 24 hours. But the message does seem clearer. You say you work in a busy office, current guidance advises you should work remotely from home if you can , Your company may now have made this possible following yesterdays announcements..

You have recently finished chemo only 3 months ago this may leave you more vulnerable. Ultimately your own consultant and specialist care team can advice you of your level of risk , please contact them for clarity. The Bloodwise guidance was compiled to help leukaemia patients understand where they may sit in the list of at risk and in need to be more vigilant with measures bloodwise.org.uk/blog/coron...

The government are advising those who are at increased risk of severe illness from coronavirus (COVID-19) to be particularly stringent in following social distancing measures. This is more likely to become more rigid by the weekend. For me the first thing that is indicative of high risk is that anyone instructed to get a flu jab as an adult each year on medical grounds is included!!

Guidance on social distancing for everyone in the UK and protecting older people and vulnerable adults gov.uk/government/publicati...

This is going to be practically challenging for us all.

We are stronger together

keep us posted on how you are getting on

Nick

[2003UK Champion]

Hi, perhaps this is a question for your medical team, but I feel the Bloodwise information to be reliable. Perhaps it is still early days since your treatment for your body. Personally I am self isolating but feel the continual media coverage and empty supermarket shelves are making me extra anxious. If you need to talk to someone the Leukaemia Care Charity helpline is open Monday - Friday 9am until 5pm and they have a special evening service on a Thursday and Friday 7pm - 10pm. The number is freephone 08088 010 444. Keep posting because I am sure others will be having the same questions.