Coronavirus Information

This page was reviewed on: 18/01/2021

About this Page

The following information on the current pandemic is aimed at those with adrenocortical cancer (ACC) for whom we provide information resources and support services.  It is from reputable sources such as the NHS and the World Health Organisation in conjunction with our own medical advisors and those of other organisations like ACC Support UK.

Beware of misinformation that is being spread on social media.

On this page, we bring together, and regularly review and update, the information currently available to us, so check back regularly.

As we cope with the 2nd wave over the Winter of 2020, it continues to be essential to follow the advice given out by the NHS which is detailed below.  Whilst the majority of people may have mild to no symptoms and not require hospital treatment, the virus spreads easily, and can have a devastating effect on those who are more vulnerable.

  • You can find more detailed information on Coronavirus in rare endocrine tumours on the AMEND website.
  • Resources for managing mental health are also available on the AMEND website.

How is ACC Support Affected?

All our staff are now working from home again.  Helen is also visiting the AMEND office once a week to process memberships and merchandise orders.  The following have been affected during the pandemic:

  • The 2020 Annual Patient Information Day was cancelled but our medical advisors provided virtual presentations to update everyone on ACC.  Click here to view.
  • Patient Support Meetings are continuing to be held virtually rather than in person and are hosted by Clinical Nurse Specialist, Nikie Jervis (NCUK).  Click here to find out more.

NB:  We are not providing a daily news update.  Please visit the website of the BBC who cover government briefings.

 

Useful Links

Vaccination Information

The UK has now approved 3 COVID-19 vaccines and is currently rolling out two of these (Pfizer/BioNtech and Oxford/AstraZeneca).  If you are not sure about having a COVID vaccine, we strongly recommend that you read the evidence and information at the links given below.  Vaccines are a way for a community to look after one another, in the same way that the flu jab each year.

Below, we list a range of questions and corresponding information resources:

  1. Is the COVID vaccine safe?
  2. All about the vaccine, research and priority list (NHS)
  3. Statement from the Society for Endocrinology about the vaccine and endocrine conditions
  4. Why vaccination is safe and important
  5. When can I expect to receive my vaccination?
  6. What to expect after the vaccination

 

Social Media:  ACC Support UK does not tolerate the spreading of misinformation on our social media channels.  We will remove any posts or comments that do so (Facebook is already doing so).

 

General Advice and Information:

 

Advice Specific to People with Long-term (Underlying) Medical Conditions:

If you’re identified as being extremely vulnerable and at the highest risk level, you will be on a list that is held by the NHS who will contact you if you need to self-isolate (shield) at any time. 

 

Fact-Checking of the Media:

 

Other Resources

  • Get Legally Speaking – podcasts of UK lawyers answering questions (from employment to marital queries, including COVID-19 related issues)
  • COVID-19 Scam Checker – Find out about coronavirus scams and how to avoid them (US-based site)
  • C-19 ZOE app: this is a daily COVID-19 Symptom Tracker for the UK.  It can be used daily (takes 1 minute) even if you feel well, and can arrange access to home testing if you report symptoms.  Click here for more information.
  • Serco (NHS) Test & Trace App:  Promised in June and finally released on 24 September, this app contains information about COVID-19, a facility to scan QR check-in codes, and will notify you to self-isolate if you have been potentially exposed to someone with the virus.  You may need to update your smartphone to be able to use this app.  Click here for more information.

 

Prof Wiebke Arlt Discusses ACC and COVID-19 (April 2020)