Ask the Doctor: Working with patients during C19 pandemic

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Question

I was diagnosed with CLL in August 2019 – Stage 0 – and not being treated. I work as a Paratransit Driver with a local hospital network taking patients to appointments, hospital discharges…..etc. that are not COVID19 patients nor showing any symptoms. I do work with other paramedics that have transported COVID19 patients though. We take all precautions that the hospital and the CDC recommend. Other than going to work for 8 to 10 hours each day, me and my wife stay home. Should I not be working in this essential service during this time? Your thoughts?

Answer

There is not universal agreement on this. I personally and several other CLL experts would recommend that you shelter in place and not work, but others would disagree. All would say that you should consult your treatment team as your individual circumstances would determine your course of action.