Covid19

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Suwal
Suwal Member Posts: 17 ✭
edited April 2020 in General discussion
HI - I take Femara and work in a school - when they are open.. Do I have an increased risk of contracting the virus?? Thank you again for being able to connect with everyone.

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  • Afraser
    Afraser Member Posts: 4,371 ✭
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    Hi, I have been taking femara for nearly seven years and am not aware of anything that would make what is essentially a respiratory illness more likely. If you had chemo therapy recently, that may reduce your immune capacity but, as far as I know, that’s only during treatment and for a few months after chemo ends. If you have been OK while working to date, there may be no heightened risk due to your treatment. However if have other medical conditions, you may wish to check with your GP (you can probably do that by phone). Understand the concern, it’s a worrying time particularly for those working in essential areas. Look after yourself and best wishes. 
  • Suwal
    Suwal Member Posts: 17 ✭
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    Many thanks for your quick response.. I think my family are more worried about me than I am! However it is good to know what is the risk.. Thank you and stay safe and healthy
  • Afraser
    Afraser Member Posts: 4,371 ✭
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    No problem but bear in mind that’s just my opinion, based on my experience. When in any doubt, talk to your GP or breast care nurse if you have one. Best wishes. 
  • Sister
    Sister Member Posts: 4,960 ✭
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    I am nearly 2 years out from chemo and I am taking Letrozole.  I reassured everyone that I was fine and that my immune system would have recovered but did decide to check with the oncology clinic.  Turns out that I am not so fine and that my white cell count is still sitting below the preferred range based on blood test done in late Feb and sometime late last year.  I get the impression that it is still recovery from chemo which can take much longer than expected.  I too work in a school and decided that it wasn't worth the risk.  I was going to go back once the students left but my GP said not to.  Unfortunately, not getting any support from school regarding working from home so feeling less than thrilled (and very, very bored).  However, I have fought too hard to try to claw my way back to some semblance of health since treatment to risk anything.
  • Giovanna_BCNA
    Giovanna_BCNA Member Posts: 1,839 ✭
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    Hello @Suwal

    As our members have said, hormone-blocking therapies (tamoxifen, letrozole, anastrozole and exemestane) do not affect the immune system.  Im not sure of what other treatments you have had, but if you are concerned you can always check with your specialist or call our helpline on 1800 500 258.  

    BCNA have added some new articles to the My Journey online tool regarding Covid19 that you may like to view and I have sent you this article  https://myjourney.org.au/article/3158  We are keeping this information updated on a regular basis.
    Best wishes

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