Q. A patient undergoing chemotherapy in a hospital consulted with his physicians whether he should temporary stop the treatment while the ongoing Covid-19 outbreak is rampant, since the chemo causes the weakening of the immune system and a higher risk of infections. He received conflicting answers from his doctors. Some advised to delay the chemo for a more propitious environment, others said the opposite. What does Horav Shlomo Miller advise?
A. Horav Shlomo Miller's Shlit'a opinion is that in principle, the concern should be with the already existing medical danger that requires the chemo. The Rov quoted Shulchan Aruch (O.H. 576: 2 and Taanis 21a) that Halacha maintains specific rulings as to what is to be considered the outbreak of a plague. Although, the rulings could be different for distinct situations, places and times, a ruling is required and that may still be at this particular time (3/8), Halachically undecided.
As mentioned, on question 2578 above, because of the many constantly changing factors involved, the Rov asserts that to obtain a correct answer, one must consult with the competent Rabbi and Physicians familiar with his particular state and condition.
Rabbi A. Bartfeld as advised by Horav Shlomo Miller Shlit'a
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