As the COVID-19 respiratory virus spreads around the world, please know that the IMF is here for you.
People living with myeloma are at an increased risk. “Myeloma patients have compromised immune systems and are highly vulnerable to new infections,” says IMF Chairman Dr. Brian G.M. Durie.
“It is important to be proactive and guard against infection from unknown sources.”
On this page, you will find updated guidance to keep you safe. Featured are Dr. Durie’s blogs and FAQs, aimed specifically at multiple myeloma patients, and links to the best sources of COVID-19 news.
There is currently no vaccine against COVID-19, so it is important for myeloma patients and their families to minimize their risk for contracting the virus. Practices to minimize your risk include:
- Avoiding close contact with people who are sick. Practice social distancing by staying 6 feet away from others. Isolation at home is best.
- Avoiding touching your eyes, nose, and mouth.
- Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces using a regular household cleaning spray or wipe.
- Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially after going to the bathroom; before eating; and after blowing your nose, coughing, or sneezing. If soap and water are not readily available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol.
Please be safe and well, and please contact the IMF InfoLine with any questions.
This two-hour webinar features a panel discussion about the latest treatments for and management of myeloma led by IMF Chairman Dr. Brian G.M. Durie.
Panelists include Dr. Joseph Mikhael of Translational Genomics Research Institute (TGen), Dr. William Bensinger of the Swedish Medical Center, and Joseph Tariman PhD RN, School of Nursing/College of Science and Health De Paul University.
published May 21, 2020
New COVID-19 studies suggest that in order to suppress the infection, we will need to follow physical distancing guidelines longer than we thought. Dr. Brian G.M. Durie explains how this and other news reports can help us live safely in a pandemic, and still manage to have some fun.
published May 14, 2020
This week, Dr. Brian G.M. Durie highlights new myeloma clinical updates, drug approvals and patient treatment guidelines during the coronavirus outbreak. He also recommends a heartwarming book to read when you need a break from the news.
published May 7, 2020
This week, a report about higher risks for cancer patients who become infected with the coronavirus caused alarm in the myeloma community. IMF Chairman Dr. Brian G.M. Durie analyzes the report and finds it not as alarming as it appears.
published April 30, 2020
In this week’s COVID-19 update, IMF Chairman Dr. Brian G.M. Durie shares the latest medical news from studies around the world, tailoring his guidance to people living with myeloma. Turns out that myeloma isn’t among the most serious risk factors; a malaria drug thought to be an effective treatment proves disappointing; and sequencing studies may shed light on the differing severities of the disease.
published April 23, 2020
We wanted to take some time and keep you up to date on the Federal Government’s response regarding COVID-19. We have received a lot of questions from patients and their families about what is included in the government has done to address the virus.
COVID-19 External Resources:
- World Health Organization
- Centers for Disease Control
- FDA Grants Emergency Use Authorization for COVID-19 Drug
- Cancer Emergency Fund
- FDA: A Message to Patients With Cancer and Health Care Providers About COVID-19
- FDA Issues Guidance for Conducting Clinical Trials
- US Government Response
- Global Dashboard of confirmed cases
- Medicare and Medicaid
- Watch Out for Medicare Fraud (Possible COVID-19 scams)
- VA and Coronavirus
- The American Red Cross: Steps to Help Cope with the Evolving Coronavirus Situation
- Considerations of COVID-19–Specific Myeloma Guidelines in New York City
- Multiple Myeloma Medicare Access
- PSA Safe Grocery Shopping in COVID-19 Pandemic
- How I Am Managing My Patients With Myeloma During the COVID-19 Pandemic
- LLS COVID-19 Patient Financial Aid Program
- Healthwell Foundation COVID-19 Ancillary Costs Support
Pharma Resources:
- COVID-19 Emergency Food Assistance Program by Team Rubicon and Bristol Myers Squibb
- GSK COVID-19 statement of support Patient Groups
- GSK Compassionate Use (Expanded Access) statement for Patient Groups
- Takeda Oncology Expands Patient Assistance in the U.S. During COVID-19 Crisis
- Takeda Oncology 1 Point portal
- Bristol Myers Squibb COVID-19 patient support
- Global Plasma Leaders Collaborate to Accelerate Development of Potential COVID-19 Hyperimmune Therapy
- Sanofi and GSK to join forces in unprecedented vaccine collaboration to fight COVID-19
- Johnson & Johnson Announces a Lead Vaccine Candidate for COVID-19
The International Myeloma Foundation medical and editorial content team
Comprised of leading medical researchers, hematologist, oncologists, oncology-certified nurses, medical editors, and medical journalists, our team has extensive knowledge of the multiple myeloma treatment and care landscape. Additionally, Dr. Brian G.M. Durie reviews and approves all medical content on this website.
Last Medical Review: April 27, 2020