Welcome to the Weekend Ramble. We all share the same disease... the type really doesn't really matter because germs and bacteria don't care what type of diabetes you have. What does matter is that the myriad of bacteria in our world see us as an easy target because we are immunocompromised. We are not just an easy target, but because our resistance is lowered by diabetes there's a pretty good chance that something like a flu could be far worse for us than for the average healthy person. I know that sucks... believe me I do because I've been there. So...what do we do? We fight... and we fight by being diligent in avoiding stuff that can hurt or, worst case, kill us.
The following article outlines 11 common sense actions to incorporate in your daily living. Most of them you probably already know and do, but a refresher never hurt, right? ;-)
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What Not to Do When You're Immunocompromised
Medically
Reviewed by Neha
Pathak, MD on 9-9-2022
Written by Alyson Powell Key
Originally published on WebMD.com
What Does 'Immunocompromised' Mean?
When you're immunocompromised, your immune system doesn't work as it should to fight infections and disease. This can result from conditions like HIV and AIDS, diabetes, lupus, and cancer, or from a bone marrow or organ transplant. You can also become "immunosuppressed" from certain treatments, like chemotherapy and corticosteroids. To protect against illness, there are some things you should avoid.
Stay Away From Pet Poop
Pet poop may carry parasites like Toxoplasma gondii or cryptosporidium (crypto). These can infect anyone, but immunocompromised people are more likely to get seriously ill. Wear gloves to clean the litter box or cage, or ask someone else to do it. Afterward, wash your hands thoroughly. Stay away from reptiles, amphibians, and farm animals. Ask your doctor and vet how to stay safe.
Avoid Unwashed Produce
Fresh fruits and veggies can spread foodborne illnesses. Wash any produce you plan to eat raw with running (and uncontaminated) water. Peel fruits before you eat them. Use a brush to scrub hard-skinned items like potatoes and carrots. Don't soak produce in the sink, which may harbor bacteria. In particular, stay away from raw or lightly cooked sprouts, like alfalfa sprouts.
Don't Swallow Unsafe Water
Even chlorinated water and saltwater can contain bugs like crypto. Never swallow water when you swim in a pool, lake, river, or ocean. Don't drink from springs or private wells. Depending on water quality in your area, even tap water – and ice made with it – could be risky. It may be best to drink only bottled water, or use a filter.
Don't Have Unsafe Sex
Sexually transmitted infections can be more serious when you’re immunocompromised. Parasites like crypto may also spread through sexual contact. Avoid activities involving oral-anal or oral-genital contact, or use barrier protections like dental dams or condoms. Thoroughly wash your hands and genitals with soap and water after sex.
Stop Smoking
Smoking itself weakens your immune system, raising your risks for many diseases and infections. It can even lead to autoimmune conditions like rheumatoid arthritis, in which your immune system attacks healthy body tissues. And it harms your lungs, leaving less healthy tissue to fight off respiratory illnesses like COVID-19. Ask your doctor about the best ways to quit.
Say No to Sushi
A weak immune system makes you vulnerable to food poisoning
and can make it more serious if you get it. So raw fish, as well as uncooked
meats like steak tartare, are off the table. Other no-nos include:
- Uncooked or undercooked eggs
- Rare burgers and steaks
- Soft cheeses like brie and Camembert, as well as blue-veined cheese
- Uncooked deli meats like bologna and turkey breast
- Self-serve buffets and salad bars
Beware of Bug Bites
Mosquitoes and ticks spread infections that can be serious
for those with weak immune systems. Before heading outdoors:
- Use bug repellent with effective ingredients like DEET or picaridin.
- Wear protective clothing.
- Avoid wooded and brushy areas.
- Check pets and yourself for ticks on your return. If you're traveling to an area prone to mosquito-borne illnesses, ask your doctor about medicine to ward off disease.
Don't Garden Without Gloves
Bug spray isn't the only protection you need when you head out to work in your yard. Soil contains bacteria and mold that could lead to fungal infections. Wear gardening gloves to guard against cuts and scrapes to your hands, which give bacteria a way to enter your body. Long pants and long sleeves help, too. In some cases, your doctor may recommend that you avoid contact with soil.
Don't Skip Any Shots
It's true that you should forgo most "live" vaccines – those containing a weak form of the disease-causing virus – like the yellow fever vaccination. But "inactivated" vaccines, like the flu and pneumonia shots, are made from dead viruses. They're generally safe, and they're important to protect against infections. Your doctor can tell you which are right for you.
Don't Be Careless About COVID-19
When you’re immunocompromised, you're more likely to get
COVID-19, get seriously ill from it, and stay sick longer. Use these
protections:
- Get a COVID-19 vaccine, including suggested boosters.
- Take medicine (Evusheld) to boost your immune system response and prevent infection.
- Wear a high-quality mask when you're around others.
- Avoid crowded indoor events.
Have a great week, everyone, and thank you for your support!
Blessed be… and happy cooking!
Chef Michael R