Staying Well This Flu Season
Fall in Arizona is worth waiting for. The heat finally breaks, patios open back up, winter visitors return to the Valley, and the holidays seem to arrive overnight. It's also the start of flu season, and with a little planning you can protect your health and still make the most of everything this time of year brings. If your treatment has lowered your immune system, a few habits will help you stay well and enjoy the cooler months with the people you love.
How Treatment Affects Your Immune System
Chemotherapy, some targeted therapies, and certain blood cancers can lower the white blood cells your body uses to fight infection. During those times your body needs a little extra support, and staying well also helps keep your treatment on schedule. That's why small precautions can make a real difference this season.
Protection works best when the people around you are covered too. Encourage your spouse, children, grandchildren, and anyone who helps with your care to get their flu shots, ideally by the end of October. When the people closest to you are protected, the flu has fewer chances to reach you.
Everyday Habits That Help
- Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, and keep hand sanitizer within reach in your purse, your car, and by the front door.
- Drink plenty of water throughout the day. Our dry desert air pulls moisture from your body faster than you might expect, even when temperatures are mild.
- Shop early in the morning or use curbside pickup to skip the crowds that come with visitor season.
- Wear a mask in busy indoor spaces like stores, waiting rooms, and places of worship, especially when your counts are low.
- Wipe down phones, remotes, doorknobs, and other surfaces that get touched often, particularly when you have visitors.
- Plan gatherings outside on the patio and take advantage of the beautiful weather we wait all summer for.
- Prioritize rest and nourishing meals whenever you can, since your body does its best work fighting infection when it's well cared for.
Hosting and Traveling During the Holidays
The holidays bring houseguests, family dinners, and trips to see loved ones, and with a little planning you can still enjoy all of it. It can help to share with friends and family ahead of time that you're being a little more careful this year, and most people are happy to visit another time or join by video if they're feeling sick. If you're flying, choose a window seat, keep a mask and sanitizer in your travel bag, and talk with us before you book so we can help plan around your treatment and counts.
When to Call Us
If your body temperature is 100.4°F or higher, call us right away, even if you feel fine. The same goes for chills, shortness of breath, a new cough, body aches, a sudden feeling that something isn't right, or if you've been around someone with the flu. We would always rather hear from you sooner.
Our team at Arizona Blood and Cancer Specialists is here for you all season, whether you have questions about your flu shot, your counts, or holiday plans. We want you to feel healthy, supported, and ready to enjoy everything this season brings.