Chronic disease and COVID-19

COVID-19 is a serious health threat. While COVID-19 can make anyone sick, some Canadians with specific health circumstances are at an increased risk of more severe outcomes, including individuals:

• aged 65 and over
• with compromised immune systems
• with underlying medical conditions

Some medical conditions and treatments such as chemotherapy may weaken immune systems. Cancer, diabetes, heart disease, stroke, hypertension and lung disease are all considered underlying medical conditions. According to the Public Health Agency of Canada, as of April 28, 74% of hospitalized cases in Canada reported one or more underlying health condition. 

Visit the Public Health Agency of Canada for the most up-to-date information on COVID-19 in Canada: www.canada.ca/coronavirus.  
See COVID-19 resources below from some CDPAC members: 

Canadian Alliance on Mental Health and Mental Illness Society

• Provincial and territorial government mental health supports for COVID-19

Canadian Cancer Society

• Cancer and COVID-19 (novel coronavirus)
• Coping with cancer and COVID-19
• Cancer and COVID-19 webinar series
• Canadian Cancer Society actively monitoring and responding to COVID-19

Canadian Medical Association

• CMA update: COVID-19
• How to navigate your health during COVID-19

Canadian Men’s Health Foundation

• COVID-19 Avoidance Advice from Virologist with Coronavirus Experience
• Social Distancing and Physical Distancing: Which is More Important During COVID-19

Canadian Nurses Association

• Coronavirus disease (COVID-19)

Diabetes Canada

• COVID-19 (coronavirus) and diabetes
• FAQ about COVID-19 and diabetes
• Diabetes Education Line
• Ask the Experts video series
• Health-Care Provider webinar series: Educating health-care providers on diabetes and COVID-19

Dietitians of Canada

• Advice for the general public about COVID-19

Heart & Stroke

• Coronavirus: The information you need 

The Kidney Foundation of Canada

• Important Information about COVID-19 and People with Chronic Kidney Disease
• COVID-19 and Dialysis Patients - Your Questions Answered