On 7 September 2021 the Government of Hong Kong announced the resumption of the Return2hk travel scheme allowing Hong Kong residents to return from the Mainland and Macao without being subject to quarantine under the Compulsory Quarantine of Certain Persons Arriving at Hong Kong Regulation (Cap. 599C) (Return2hk Scheme).

This scheme is eligible for Hong Kong residents staying in Macao and Mainland provinces and municipalities, except for the Guangdong Province. To ensure this process remains safe and controlled, a quota arrangement is in place. For Hong Kong residents who wish to return they must apply through the online booking system here.

For returning Hong Kong residents seeking appointments at an Icon Cancer Centre or Icon Specialist Centre please call the relevant clinic who will assist with your inquiry.

More information on the Return2hk travel scheme can be found on the Government website here.

As we continue to face the COVID-19 (Coronavirus Disease 2019) global pandemic, we want to reassure you that we are undertaking the most stringent hygiene practices and screening measures to ensure the safety of our patients, doctors and staff within our centre.

We are following advice from the government, and continue to monitor the situation and adapt new practices so we can keep delivering care to our patients. We have installed screening stations across all our clinics to ensure the safety of our patients and visitors in and out of the clinics, including:

• Checking temperature and general symptoms of all patients and visitors
• All patients are required to complete a health declaration form
• Screening for travel history. People who have travelled to heightened areas of concern in the last 14 days and/or been in close contact with a confirmed COVID-19 case are not permitted into the clinic
• All patients and visitors are advised to wear a level 1 or 2 face mask before entering the clinic

What to do if you are currently receiving treatment

If you are currently receiving cancer treatment please continue to go to the clinic for treatment and take precautions when travelling to and from your appointments – always practice good personal hygiene and wear a mask.

We will isolate patients and visitors who fit the current WHO suspected case definitions for COVID-19 who then may be referred to the nearest A&E or escalated to Department of Health for further management. If you are feeling unwell please call the clinic ahead of your visit.

What will happen if I contract COVID-19 during my treatment?

At Icon, we manage many conditions with a wide variety of treatments. It is not uncommon for our patients to develop seasonal flu and other infections during active treatment cancer care and we are well prepared to manage your safety and the safety of our staff if you do develop COVID-19. At this point in time you may need a temporary break from treatment, treatment after-hours or in a dedicated protected treatment area, or treatment at another site. Your doctors will carefully consider what is the best approach in your circumstance.

If you have a fever after treatment or develop flu-like symptoms

As per general direction by your doctor and nursing team it is important to monitor your health during chemotherapy treatment. If you develop a fever it is important to always contact the clinic immediately. Many of the known symptoms of COVID-19 are general symptoms and side-effects experienced by cancer patients. We advise closely monitoring your health and to look out for new or worsening symptoms and call your clinic if you are feeling unwell.

Patients with cancer who are undergoing treatment have a weakened immune system, which makes them more vulnerable to general infections, including COVID-19. It is particularly important for patients having chemotherapy to take extra caution during this time. Alongside the measures Icon is taking to ensure the safety of our patients at our clinics, here are some general steps cancer patients can do to help protect from infections such as COVID-19.

Observe good personal hygiene and wash hands regularly

Most infections are transmitted through the oral route. It is important to practice good hand hygiene and always wash your hands before every meal and make sure you wash your hands with soap and water for about 20 seconds and sufficiently dry them. If you don’t have access to fresh water, carry around a hand sanitiser that contains high alcohol content. Also try to avoid touching your face frequently, particularly with unclean hands.

Practice social distancing

Social distancing is one of the best ways that you can reduce your risk of exposure to COVID-19. Stay 1.5 metres away from others and avoid shaking hands, hugging and kissing others.

Avoid contact with people who are sick

Avoid close contact with people who are unwell or showing symptoms of illness. Steer clear of crowded places and wear a mask if you have respiratory symptoms such as a cough or runny nose. If you have been in contact with a confirmed COVID-19 case please monitor your health and self-isolate and call your doctor to seek medical advice immediately.

It is important to remain calm and vigilant during this time. Icon is taking every precaution to prevent spread of the virus and ensure the safety of our patients, doctors and staff.