If you are experiencing symptoms of COVID-19, please complete the online self-assessment at
www.811healthline.ca or by call 811.
The global COVID-19 pandemic is an evolving situation. Updates to this page will be made as the situation develops, and this information will be updated regularly. This page has been prepared to help you, as well as your friends, family and caregivers, better understand the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on your cancer care
The Public Health Agency of Canada recommends that everyone should practice physical distancing to help reduce the spread of COVID-19. Cancer is an underlying medical condition. That means that you are at a higher risk for more serious complications of COVID-19.
Cancer treatment amid Covid-19
For infection prevention Eastern Health has implemented visitor restrictions. A Cancer patient is especially vulnerable to contracting illness while undergoing treatment due to a compromised immune system. Effective immediately no patient receiving active treatment will be permitted to have any visitors accompany them for treatment. This is to ensure the safety of the patients and staff.
The COVID-19 pandemic is an unprecedented situation. Patient and staff safety is our number one priority and we are committed to maintaining the best cancer care we can. The Dr. H. Bliss Murphy Cancer Care staff are working hard to manage patient care during this time and continue to prioritize treatments. Should any protocols change, affected patients will be contacted directly.
Staying healthy through COVID-19
If you are feeling anxious, stressed or depressed due to the COVID-19 crisis please call the Mental Health Crisis Line available 24 hours a day at 1-888-737-4668. Stay in regular contact with friends and family via phone, email, social media and video calls. You should also contact your doctor or nurse if you feel you need additional emotional support from one of our social workers.
Wash your hands: Washing your hands properly means using soap and water and washing for at least 20 seconds. You can also use hand sanitizer with alcohol in it. If you have to cough or sneeze, try to do so into your elbow or a tissue. Immediately wash your hands afterwards. Stay away from other people who are ill. If you are sick yourself, stay away from others.
Stay Active: To stay fit and healthy, you should take as much exercise as possible. This can be a challenge when confined to your home, but you can take walks in your yard, walk up and down stairs or follow online exercise classes. Any way you can move around will help you to stay strong and fit.
Eat Well: It is crucial that you have a healthy diet so it’s important to make sure you can access the food that you need, such as fresh fruit and vegetables. Some supermarkets are prioritizing delivery slots for vulnerable people along with extending their opening hours. If you receive nutritional supplements and support from a dietician in the cancer center, these will continue throughout the pandemic.
Where can I find more information?
For more information please visit
www.cancercare.easternhealth.ca
