Coronavirus (COVID-19) guidance for people with cancer

As coronavirus restrictions are starting to ease, it is understandable that this might be a worrying and uncertain time for people living with cancer. We have information about the support that's available, as well as advice to help you stay safe and cope with uncertainty. Read more about the easing of coronavirus restrictions.

Coronavirus is a viral infection that affects the lungs. Anyone who has a weakened immune system is more at risk of being seriously ill if they get coronavirus (COVID-19).  Some people with cancer may be at a higher risk of getting coronavirus (COVID-19). It is important to follow the advice from the NHS and your healthcare team. 

We understand many people are anxious about the impact of coronavirus (COVID-19) on their health and on cancer care. It is important to follow the advice from the NHS and your healthcare team. 

It is important that you follow the latest government advice. Visit government websites for coronavirus guidance in:

• England
• Scotland
• Wales
• Northern Ireland. 

• a new, continuous cough and/or
• a high temperature
• a loss or change to your sense of smell or taste

You should self-isolate (stay at home all the time) for 10 days if: 

• you have symptoms even if the symptoms are mild
• someone you live with or have been in contact with has symptoms or had a positive test 
• you have been told to self-isolate by NHS Test and Trace. 

You can find more information about self-isolation.

You can order a test to do at home. Or you can get a free NHS test if you have symptoms of coronavirus. You should arrange this as soon as possible. A trained person will test you. They will usually swab the back of your throat and your nose. The swab looks like a long cotton bud.

You may be tested if you are due to have surgery or a medical procedure. Your hospital team will discuss this with you.  

You can read more about arranging a test in:

• England
• Scotland
• Wales
• Northern Ireland

If you have finished cancer treatment or have had cancer in the past, you may be worried about your risk of coronavirus. Coronavirus is a viral infection that affects the lungs. Anyone who has a weakened immune system is more at risk of being seriously ill if they get coronavirus (COVID-19). Talk to your GP or hospital team if you are worried about your risk of being seriously ill if you get coronavirus.

We have more information about coronavirus after cancer treatment. 

We have listed some organisations and websites that have accessible coronavirus information in other formats and languages. This includes links to easy read booklets and British Sign Language (BSL) content. These resources are not specifically for people living with cancer but you may find them helpful.

We have listed some websites that provide information on how coronavirus has impacted certain communities.

• Race Equality Foundation has information about risk factors of coronavirus and the impact on black and minority ethnic communities. You can also download the COVID-19 and Black and Minority Ethnic Communities easy read leaflet (PDF).
• Stonewall has information about how coronavirus is affecting LGBT communities and a list of organisations that can support you. 
• Friends, Families and Travellers has advice and support for gypsy, traveller and boater communities. There is information for local authorities and organisations that support the travelling community as well as some information for travellers themselves.