Cancer and COVID-19

Cancer Council understands that Australians undergoing cancer treatment, cancer survivors and their families and friends may have questions in relation to the recent outbreak of Coronavirus and the illness it causes, COVID-19.

If you have cancer your immune system may not be as strong as it is normally so you may feel concerned about the risks associated with COVID-19.

Generally, people with cancer should continue to follow any specific advice or standard precautions recommended by their health care practitioners to minimise your risk of infection, during and after treatment.

Information

For more detailed information about the COVID-19 vaccination for people affected by cancer, frequently asked questions and information in other languages visit Cancer Council Australia’s website.

This page is being updated as new information becomes available.

• Testing
  In the ACT, people who are vulnerable, and are unable to line up for long periods of time, can book a testing appointment through Capital Pathology or another provider for testing. See more information on where to get tested.
  
  
• COVID-19 vaccination
  For the most up to date information about COVID-19 vaccination for people with cancer visit Cancer Australia's COVID 19 and vaccines page.
  
  
• Telehealth
  Your cancer treatment team may be offering you appointments by phone or video instead of face-to-face. These are both types of telehealth. You can still use an interpreter for telehealth appointments if you want to. Read our factsheet about telehealth for people with cancer and their carers, this is also available in community languages.
  
  
• Cancer and COVID-19 podcasts Developed by Cancer Council NSW this new podcast series covers topics such as coping with isolation and using telehealth. Instructions on how to access and listen to the podcasts are also available.
  
  
• For more information and support regarding COVID-19 in the ACT, call the ACT Government's COVID-19 helpline which operates on 02 6207 7244 between 8am and 8pm daily or visit www.covid19.act.gov.au.

Support

If you are feeling anxious, have questions or need support, please remember that Cancer Council’s information and support line is available on 13 11 20 during business hours. Our specially trained team can provide emotional support as well as practical tips for minimising the risk of infection during this time. If you prefer you can also contact us.

Our Cancer Council Online Community is a safe and supportive online discussion site for people affected by cancer, their carers and families.

As always, our Understanding Cancer booklets, The Thing About Cancer podcasts and survivorship webinars are available to download free from our website. Also available online are recordings of our popular Relaxation and Mindful Meditation CDs.

Practical Support

Our Pro Bono program continues to operate linking eligible clients with volunteer professionals who can assist with legal, financial planning, small business and workplace advice. 

Smoking

If you are concerned about the coronavirus (COVID-19) and how it may impact you as a smoker, Quit Victoria has answered the most commonly asked questions here.

Stopping smoking is the best thing you can do for your health, and if you are thinking about stopping smoking, call the Quitline on 13 78 48 and have a chat with a qualified counsellor.

We will continue to monitor the situation and corresponding health advice and review decisions about our services where necessary. If you have any questions in the meantime, please contact us.