Since the World Health Organization’s (WHO) classification of the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak as a pandemic this past March, the virus continues dominating worldwide news coverage today and creating a “new normal” way to live, work, get an education, and interact with others.
Leaders serving at the local, state, and federal levels in the United States and other countries enforced stay-at-home orders; health officials encourage social distancing, quarantining, and self-isolation practices. These measures intend to slow and stop the spread of the coronavirus and keep as many people as possible in good health.
What is COVID-19?
Known symptoms of COVID-19, identified following the 2019 outbreak in Wuhan, China, include shortness of breath, dry cough, throat soreness, fever, aches, tiredness, pains, and more. Because this virus can spread through coughs, respiratory droplets, sneezes, and saliva droplets, people should remain physically distant from others by a minimum distance of six feet, and wear facial masks and coverings.
Who Has a High Risk of Getting COVID-19?
While the virus has ultimately impacted everyone and their family members, it does so in a variety of ways. Some people experienced layoffs, job changes, or have to work from home. Students had to switch to online learning when school campuses closed. Other people have become caretakers for someone who contracted the novel coronavirus.
Data-based reports from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention relay that the individuals most at risk for contracting the coronavirus include older adults, immunocompromised individuals, and people with underlying health conditions such as chronic lung disease, diabetes, heart disease, and various types of cancer.
Individuals living with cancer may worry about themselves and loved ones contracting COVID-19, which can cause stress and anxiety that could impair mental health. They may also worry about if it will ever be safe for them to leave their homes and go out
Cancer and the Coronavirus
Cancer patients should be aware that treatments like chemotherapy can weaken their immune systems and increase their susceptibility to COVID-19. Someone who has cancer or receives consultation or treatment from a specialist, radiation oncologist, and other medical oncology and internal medicine experts at a cancer care center should make the important decision to stay at home as much as possible. They should ensure they have access to the necessary supplies and medication, especially if they’ll stay home for extended periods. In New Jersey, cancer patients who participate in clinical trials or receive cancer treatment in Cape May Court House, NJ, should practice social distancing and wear facial coverings when going out for appointments.
Health care systems continue adjusting their policies and activities to protect patients from COVID-19 the best they can. In some cases, doctors are working with patients to change how they conduct treatment and follow-up appointments.
How to Access Health Care Services Amid the Coronavirus
Cancer treatment options such as radiation therapy vary, so while it may be safe to delay some, it might be unsafe to postpone or cancel others. Someone with lung cancer, breast cancer, or any cancer should call their healthcare provider or medical oncologist before attending their next appointment and adhere to the guidance they provide.
For some people, medical care and treatment options weren’t accessible or affordable before the pandemic because they didn’t have health insurance. Americans who must receive cancer treatment but need insurance coverage can find affordable individual and family plans, short-term plans, private plans, catastrophic plans, and more with Health Quote Gurus.
Searching for and comparing health insurance options with Health Quote Gurus is the best way to get flexible, secure health insurance that you and your family need at the best pricing possible.
