CORONAVIRUS AND CANCER What is Coronavirus ? The coronavirus is a flu-like virus. It causes an illness called COVID-19 which can affect your lungs and airways. For most people, the virus won’t cause serious problems. But for some people, the virus can have serious complications. People with cancer are among those at higher risk of complications. This is because cancer and treatment can weaken their immune systems.  What if you have Symptoms ? If you have any of following symptoms you should contact your oncologist as soon as possible. (Preferably online --Phone/Email) 1. A high temperature of above 37.8C and, or 2. A continuous new cough - this means coughing a lot for more than an hour, or 3 or more coughing episodes in 24 hours (if you usually have a cough, it may be worse than usual) What about my Cancer Treatment ? Oncologist are looking at ways to try and minimise the impact of the coronavirus outbreak on cancer patients. They will aim to continue with your treatment wherever possible. But they might need to change your treatment or prioritise certain treatments over others. Your doctors also have to consider the impact of the coronavirus outbreak on all health services. For example, it’s likely that there will be staff and bed shortages. This means they might need to delay or rearrange treatments. Because of this they might need to prioritise some treatments over others. ***Talk to your health care team about the effect of the coronavirus outbreak on your treatment plan. They know about your individual situation and will try to work with you to find the best plan for you. Speak to them about any concerns or questions you might have.*** What’s the advice for people with cancer (who have no symptoms of coronavirus)? If you are already under chemotherapy or immunotherapy then follow Shielding. Shielding means that you stay home and avoid face-to-face contact for at least 12 weeks 1 Avoid anyone who has possible coronavirus symptoms 2. Avoid family gatherings, even in private spaces 3. Ask family or friends to arrange shopping for you and leave it at your door. 4. All visitors should wash their hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds when they arrive at your home and often during the visit. If you are not on any active treatment then follow Social Distancing. Reference-https://www.cancerresearchuk.org