The Charlton Centre

This week, many will return to school, and it’s no secret that the back-to-school season often sparks a rise in infections and seasonal illnesses. While it may start in classrooms, it quickly spreads beyond schools, as parents and caregivers carry viruses into workplaces and the wider community. For those on biologic medications, we want to take a moment to remind you of a few important precautions.

If you develop an active infection, such as the flu or COVID-19, it’s important to hold your biologic dose until you’re feeling better. Once recovered, you can resume your medication and adjust the schedule accordingly. For example, if you normally give your injection every other Wednesday but you’re sick on the day it’s due and don’t feel better until Sunday, you should delay the injection until Sunday. From then on, your injection schedule would shift to every other Sunday. If you receive your biologic by infusion and are sick for your scheduled infusion, please call your clinic to cancel and reschedule your appointment as soon as possible.

Tips to Reduce Infection Risk

There are proactive steps you can take to help reduce your risk of illness and avoid potential delays to your biologic therapy:

1. Stay Up to Date on Vaccines

Non-live vaccines such as the flu shot and COVID-19 boosters can be received at any time during biologic treatment; you don’t need to skip or delay your dose. If you’d like a list of recommended vaccines including protection for shingles, RSV and pneumonia , please do not hesitate to contact us and we’ll be happy to send it to you.

2. Practice Good Hand Hygiene

Wash your hands regularly with soap and water, especially after being in public spaces and before eating.

3. Maintain a Nutritious Diet

In addition to eating a variety of fruits and vegetables, consider incorporating foods with natural antiviral and antibacterial properties. Garlic, coconut oil, lemons, ginger, turmeric, and honey are great additions to support your immune health.

4. Prioritize Sleep

Even during busy times, aim for 7 to 8 hours of sleep each night. Rest is essential for reducing stress and giving your body time to repair and restore immune function.

If you’re ever unsure about whether to hold your dose or how to manage your biologic during an active infection, don’t hesitate to reach out, our pharmacy team is here to help. Wishing everyone a safe and healthy return to school!

Janine Fletcher is a 4th-year pharmacy student from the University of Waterloo and is currently completing a rotation at Charlton Health. She is passionate about improving health outcomes for patients with chronic conditions and is on track to become a licensed pharmacist this year.