Cancer and COVID-19

Get the facts on all things cancer and COVID-19

This year, for the first time, Australia is managing COVID-19 and an influenza season. It's very important to protect yourself by keeping up with your COVID-19 vaccines and getting a flu shot.
People with cancer who contract COVID-19 are twice as likely to have severe symptoms and require hospital treatment. Vaccination against COVID-19 is therefore highly recommended.
For most cancer patients on active therapy, it is recommended to have a primary COVID-19 vaccination course of three primary doses followed by booster doses.
While these vaccines have been developed faster than ever before, none of the steps in safety testing have been skipped.

If you test positive to COVID-19, let your treating team know as soon as possible, as you may be eligible for COVID-19 treatments. You may need to discuss temporary changes to your cancer treatment.
If you are worried about any symptoms, contact your GP. In an emergency, call Triple Zero 000.
While these may feel like uncertain times, regular check-ups, including follow up care, are important to maintain.
Delaying appointments could mean you present later with more complicated and progressed cancer, making treatment options more challenging.
Health care settings are putting measures in place to reduce your risk of infection and ensure you are protected. This includes having appointments with your doctors remotely via telehealth.

If you’re affected by cancer and COVID-19, you’re not alone. Contact our trusted and compassionate cancer nurses on 13 11 20 or via email.

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