Brenda Duke travels to Juravinski Cancer Centre every two weeks for lung cancer treatment that leaves her with a weakened immune system.

That means the novel coronavirus — or even the common cold — loom as outsized health risks for her.

Duke is concerned about her health, but "not at all worried" by the revelation that a Juravinski oncologist worked at the hospital this week before being diagnosed with COVID-19. "I would walk in there tomorrow if I had to and not be at all concerned. No qualms," she said in an interview.

Duke said she's satisfied with the "due diligence" efforts of the hospital to protect patients and other hospital staff. "I think the doctor acted very responsibly," Duke said. "I don't think there is anything else (hospital administrators) could have done."

The infected 32-year-old doctor, who flew home to Burlington from Hawaii last weekend, came to work Monday and treated 14 patients and worked with nine staffers before experiencing symptoms of illness. She was tested and isolated herself from the public.

More than 30 patients, staff and others are either in self-isolation for 14 days or being asked to self-monitor for symptoms such as fever, coughing and nausea depending on their level of contact with the oncologist.

Health authorities acknowledged the extra level of risk for cancer patients at a news conference Wednesday.

"They are cancer patients and we all know they're a particularly vulnerable group," said Hamilton Health Sciences physician-in-chief Dr. Barry Lumb, who added there would be "an extremely low threshold" to investigate any symptoms among immunocompromised patients.

"We are open for business and we are continuing to take care of patients."

The Canadian Cancer Society did not speak specifically to questions about the Juravinski COVID-19 case when contacted by The Spectator.

But cancer control vice-president Sandra Krueckl reiterated in a statement that treatments like radiation, surgery and chemotherapy can compromise the immune system, so patients should "take all precautions to protect their health."

"We also recommend that cancer patients talk to their doctor or health care team if they have concerns about their specific risk for COVID-19," she said.

Hospital brass emphasized this week all possible measures are being taken to protect vulnerable patients.

All areas where the infected oncologist worked Monday have been cleaned "multiple times" according to an update on the HHS website. "It's safe for patients to come to their appointments or to receive care anywhere across our hospital system including the Juravinski," says a website statement.

Duke said she is worried about patients of the self-isolated doctor, but not just because of the virus.

"I'd be lost without access to my oncologist," she said. "Cancer is a very emotional disease … If she has to be away for a long period, people will be missing her services."

Ironically, Duke thinks about COVID-19 a lot — mostly, because the tumour in her lung leaves her coughing and short of breath. "I find myself having to reassure people I'm not contagious," she said wryly.

The hospital is advising patients and visitors to phone the city's COVID-19 hotline at 905-546-2424 ext. 7970 if they have concerns about having been exposed to COVID-19 or if they are experiencing symptoms of the disease.

Those who were in direct contact with the physician have been directed to go into self-isolation at home for 14 days.