Latest COVID-19 Update:
Affiliated Oncologists recognize the State of Illinois' phase 5 mask lifting mandate. We hope you and those close to you have remained healthy during this long period of time. In an effort to keep our at-risk patients and their families well, at this time we have made the decision to continue our policies of protection in all of our Affiliated Oncologists locations.
- Anyone who enters the offices of AO, will continue to be screened for COVID-19 symptoms (including fever, cough, sore throat and/or shortness of breath).
- Patients only will be allowed into our clinics and treatment rooms (except for those who are required to use a wheelchair or have other clarified medical needs).
Thank you for your continued cooperation and trust.
Where can I get more information?
For more information on COVID-19, Affiliated Oncologists recommends the following resources:
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: cdc.gov/coronavirus
- World Health Organization: who.int/coronavirus
COVID-19 Questions and Answers
As a cancer patient, am I at additional risk for catching COVID-19?
Patients with compromised immune systems, including many cancer patients, are more susceptible to viruses, including COVID-19. Some cancer therapies, such as targeted drugs, steroids, as well as some cancer types, like blood cancers, can result in a weakened immune system.
As a cancer patient, if I am at higher risk, how can I protect myself?
You, your caregivers, and close contacts can take proactive measures to protect yourselves and those around you from COVID-19 and the flu, including these common-sense prevention steps:
- Wash your hands thoroughly for at least 20 seconds and frequently. If soap and water are unavailable, use alcohol-based hand rub.
- Cover coughs and sneezes with a tissue. Throw tissues in the trash.
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth.
- Avoid close contact with sick people.
- Stay home if you are not well.
- Avoid large crowds while receiving therapy.
- Disinfect frequently touched surfaces with household cleaning spray or wipe.
Call Affiliated Oncologists at 708-424-9710 first if you have concerns.
What precautions is Affiliated Oncologists taking in light of the COVID-19 situation?
Affiliated Oncologists closely and continually monitoring COVID-19, including the latest updates from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
The CDC-recommended protocols for healthcare providers regarding COVID-19 are aligned with Affiliated Oncologists’ existing protocols for flu season. During flu season, we emphasize an array of preventative measures that protect our patients and staff from exposure to illness. These include:
- Hand hygiene (washing hand with soap and/or alcohol-based sanitizers)
- Isolating patients who come into our locations exhibiting respiratory or flu-like symptoms
What should I do if my caregiver has traveled to China or other locations where the COVID-19 outbreak is severe?
You should avoid contact with anyone, including a caregiver, who has traveled to locations where the
COVID-19 outbreak is severe for at least 14 days upon their return. If you or anyone you know have already been in contact with have traveled to these locations, please contact Affiliated Oncologists before visiting our clinics. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) regularly updates travel advisories and information related to travel and COVID-19.
If your caregiver or close contact is sick, encourage them to seek medical attention, and avoid contact with them until they are well, e.g., free from fever for at least 24-48 hours.
Where can I get more information?
As the COVID-19 situation changes, we will keep our staff and our patients updated.
For more information on COVID-19, Affiliated Oncologists recommends the following resources: