COVID-19 and your health


Looking after your physical and emotional health during COVID-19 is really important, especially if you are affected by cancer.

If you are feeling anxious, have questions or need support, talk to our cancer nurses on 13 11 20. They can provide emotional support, practical tips for minimising the risk of infection during this time, and connections to local services to help you manage cancer and COVID-19.

Limiting exposure during treatment

If you or someone you're caring for is currently undergoing cancer treatment, there are some practical ways you can limit the risk of exposure to COVID-19.

Practical tips for limiting COVID-19 exposure

 

Experiencing symptoms

Contact your treatment team immediately if you have been in contact with someone who has tested positive for COVID-19 or are currently experiencing infection symptoms including a fever, cough, sore throat and shortness of breath.

Where possible, obtain advice over the phone from your doctor rather than attending in person to lower your risk of exposure, and to reduce the risk of exposing others. In an emergency, call Triple Zero 000.

Contact our cancer nurses

Accessing medication and essential supplies

If you take prescription or over-the-counter medication, make sure you have enough at home or in a safe place that you can access. A one-month supply is ideal. Additionally, vulnerable patients can now access free delivery of prescription medicine to their home through the Federal Government’s COVID-19 National Health Plan Home Medicines Service. Contact your pharmacy to find out more.

If you experience difficulty obtaining medicines due to increased demand or supply issues, contact your doctor or cancer centre, as they may be able to suggest alternatives.

There are also services now available to assist with priority home delivery of groceries for vulnerable members of our community. Apply for priority delivery online with Woolworths and Coles.

The Victorian Government has introduced emergency relief packages for people in mandatory self-isolation, who have little or no food and no network of family and friends to support them. For more information about eligibility call the Victorian coronavirus hotline on 1800 675 398.

Getting support

Maintaining relationships

Maintaining relationships can be especially difficult if you need to distance yourself from others to reduce your risk of infection. Friends and family play an important role in managing your wellbeing during a difficult and anxious time.

Tips for keeping in contact with loved ones

 

Keeping informed

Knowledge about COVID-19 is changing rapidly, as are the public health messages that keep you safe. Keep checking the Australian Government's website for updated information. 

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Questions about cancer?

Call or email our experienced cancer nurses for information and support.

Contact a cancer nurse