Please note that this is a rapidly evolving health event and updates are changing often, so please check the relevant government websites outlined below and especially the Australian Government Department of Health website upon which MPA has based this information.
Last updated 03 December 2021
Please click here to view the Australian Government Department of Health website upon which MPA has based this information.
In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, an expert advisory panel has been established for each cancer type to provide guidance to doctors as well as support for patients during this time. This is a joint initiative of the Victorian Comprehensive Cancer Centre and Monash Partners Comprehensive Cancer Consortium.
Read our guide for support during the COVID-19 pandemic
The COVID-19 pandemic has changed the way we care for a person at the end of life, as well as how we support those who are grieving. Carer help has produced some new fact sheets to support carers during this pandemic. The fact sheets provide practical information from caring at home and hospital, arranging funerals and coping with bereavement, to using Telehealth and identifying trustworthy health information online.
Coronaviruses are a large family of viruses that can make humans and animals sick. They cause illnesses that can range from the common cold to more severe diseases.
Symptoms can range from mild illness to pneumonia. Most people recover from the disease without needing special treatment.
People with coronavirus may experience:
There is evidence that the virus spreads from person-to-person.
The virus is most likely spread through:
There is evidence that those at higher risk of more severe illness include:
Not everyone who is at higher risk will necessarily experience more severe illness if infected with COVID-19.
The good news is that most people who catch COVID-19 will have a mild illness for 1-2 weeks, and won’t need hospital treatment.
We are however aware that a number of our melanoma patients have a range of health conditions and/or are undergoing treatment that could place them at increased risk should they contract the virus. It is important to understand your risk level and speak with your treating clinician if you have concerns.
Everyone should practice good hygiene to protect against infections.
Good hygiene includes:
Plan ahead and consider what you would need to do if you had to self-isolate at home for 2 weeks (prepare a supply of essential medications, non-perishable food and everyday products, but do not panic and do not stockpile). Remember that even if you are at home in self-isolation you will be able to order food to be delivered, to spend time in your garden or balcony if this is a private area, and keep in touch with friends and family by telephone, social media such as Facetime, Whats App or Facebook.
Please stay home if you are unwell and phone your GP, or call the helpline (Australian Health Department: 1800 020 080) for further instructions.
Please do not:
Melanoma Patients Australia is continuing to monitor the situation and we are aware that this virus is likely to have an impact on our community. We have a range of support mechanisms that are available including our Online Support Group, National Melanoma Support Line 1300 88 44 50 and Metastatic Telephone Support Group (register your interest with MPA) which can all be accessed from home.
We do not provide medical advice but our support services can still offer vital emotional support and can help to point you in the right direction if you need specific information.
Please be alert, not alarmed; please be vigilant about hygiene and think about others.
State & Territory Health Department numbers:
National Information:
State & Territory Information:
Global:
