COVID-19 Information for Patients With Cancer

As COVID-19 continues to spread across the globe, it has not stopped cancer care. We understand our patients — particularly those with cancer — may feel anxious and overwhelmed during this uncertain time. While the way we do business has changed, our commitment to providing you with the highest quality of health care remains.

Education and Support

To assist you during this challenging time, Memorial Hermann offers nurse navigators to guide, educate and support you. To speak to one of our compassionate team members from the convenience of your home, call (833) 770-7771 or fill out the form on this page.

Appointments

In many cases, virtual appointments may be an option to take the place of an in-person appointment, or your appointment may be postponed. It is important to communicate with your physician to determine the best plan of care for you.

Risk to Cancer Patients

Cancer patients are at greater risk because they are more susceptible to viruses, including COVID-19. Some cancer therapies, such as targeted drugs and steroids, can result in a weakened immune system, thus making those patients more vulnerable to contract the virus, as it is more difficult for them to fight the disease.

Prevention and Treatment

Currently, no vaccine is available to protect against COVID-19. It is spread through person-to-person contact, and often cannot be traced to relevant travel history or contact with another known patient. Because of this, patients being treated for cancer should exercise extreme caution when being around people. The Centers for Disease Control and 

Prevention recommends the following:

• Stay home when you are sick and call your provider. Avoid contact with anyone who is sick.
• Avoid all nonessential travel and large crowds, especially when receiving treatment. If you must go in public, wear a cloth face mask to minimize your chance of exposure.
• Wash your hands often and for at least 20 seconds with soap and water. If soap and water is not available, use a hand sanitizer with at least 60% ethanol, or 70% isopropanol.
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth and cover coughs and sneezes.
• Clean and disinfect high-touch surfaces often.

When to Seek Medical Attention

According to the CDC, consult your physician if you experience any of the following symptoms:

• Fever 
• Shortness of breath, chest tightness
• Dry cough 
• Bluish lips, confusion
• Aches, pains, fatigue 
• Diarrhea
• Nasal congestion or runny nose

As we continue to navigate this pandemic, our patients remain our top priority. Thank you for choosing Memorial Hermann.

We understand you have a choice when deciding where to receive treatment, and we thank you for trusting us to care for you.