COVID-19 and cancer patients
People with compromised immune systems or pre-existing medical conditions, including cancer, may be at increased risk of contracting coronavirus (COVID-19) and increased risk of more severe infection.
Contact your doctor or healthcare team
If you are receiving cancer treatment and develop a fever, cough or have difficulty breathing, contact your oncologist or a member of your healthcare team, as you usually would when you develop any side effect while on treatment.
Prevention
Cancer patients should follow the same recommendations as the general population
- If you feel sick, stay at home and limit contact with others
- Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds; use alcohol-based hand sanitizer if soap and water are not available
- Cough or sneeze into a tissue or the bend of your arm, not your hand.
- Dispose of any tissues you have used as soon as possible in a lined waste basket and wash your hands afterwards.
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose, or mouth with unwashed hands.
- Clean the following high-touch surfaces frequently with regular household cleaners or diluted bleach (1 part bleach to 9 parts water):
– toys
– toilets
– phones
– electronics
– door handles
– bedside tables
– television remotes
Wearing masks
If you are a healthy individual, the use of a mask is not recommended for preventing the spread of COVID-19.
Wearing a mask when you are not ill may give a false sense of security. There is a potential risk of infection with improper mask use and disposal. They also need to be changed frequently.
However, your health care provider may recommend you wear a mask if you are experiencing symptoms of COVID-19 while you are seeking or waiting for care. In this instance, masks are an appropriate part of infection prevention and control measures. The mask acts as a barrier and helps stop the tiny droplets from spreading you when you cough or sneeze.
Public Health Agency of Canada
More details and latest updates on COVID-19 visit Public Health Agency of Canada
Public Health Authorities by province or territory
To learn more about COVID-19 in your province or territory click on this link (scroll down to the bottom of the page for a list of phone numbers and website links).
