Updated advice for paediatric oncology and BMT patients during the COVID-19 pandemic
8 May 2020
UPDATE
We understand that the COVID-19 pandemic has significantly compounded the anxieties that families with a child undergoing treatment for cancer or a BMT already face.
Fortunately, the public health measures instituted by the Australian and New Zealand governments have been very successful in controlling the spread of SARS-CoV-2 and currently, there are very low rates of community transmission. This means that we are in the fortunate position where plans are being made nationally to ease the current restrictions. Schools are starting to re-open in all states of Australia and in New Zealand. For parents of more vulnerable children, including paediatric oncology and BMT patients, the decision as to whether or not to send their children back to school is more complex.
”The international paediatric oncology community has been incredibly generous in sharing their experiences during the COVID-19 pandemic in real time”, said ANZCHOG Chair, Dr. Chris Fraser. “We have been able to draw upon the experience of our colleagues in countries that have been severely affected by the pandemic to help us make an informed recommendation that the currently available evidence suggests it is safe for the vast majority of paediatric oncology patients to return to school in Australia and New Zealand.”
For further information and guidance ANZCHOG have put together an ‘Updated advice for paediatric oncology and BMT patients during the COVID-19 pandemic’: Click here
Other related COVID-19 news:
- COVID-19 original guidance for children and young people undergoing cancer treatment: Click here
- A multicentre study of SARS-CoV-2 infection in children with cancer, immunodeficiency or following stem cell transplant: Click here
- For other ANZCHOG news: Click here