Latest Covid-19 information for our patients

The latest information for NMOSD patients according the government guidance is as follows:

For those on Immunosuppressive treatments

If you take immunosuppression treatments (Mycophenolate, Azathioprine, Rituximab, Methotrexate, Prednisolone, Eculizumab and Tocilizumab) you fall into the category of being extremely vulnerable.  Guidance has changed as of 1st June 2020 and is as follows:

People classed as clinically extremely vulnerable are advised to take additional action to prevent themselves from coming into contact with the virus. If you’re clinically extremely vulnerable, you’re strongly advised to stay at home as much as possible and keep visits outside to a minimum (for instance once per day).

This is called ‘shielding’ and the advice is now updated:

1. If you wish to spend time outdoors (though not in other buildings, households, or enclosed spaces) you should take extra care to minimise contact with others by keeping 2 metres apart.
2. If you choose to spend time outdoors, this can be with members of your own household. If you live alone, you can spend time outdoors with one person from another household (ideally the same person each time).
3. You should stay alert when leaving home: washing your hands regularly, maintaining social distance and avoiding gatherings of any size.
4. You should not attend any gatherings, including gatherings of friends and families in private spaces, for example, parties, weddings and religious services.
5. You should strictly avoid contact with anyone who is displaying symptoms of COVID-19 (a new continuous cough, a high temperature, or a loss of, or change in, your sense of taste or smell).

The Government is currently advising people to shield until 30 June 2020 and is regularly monitoring this position.

For more information go to:

https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/guidance-on-shielding-and-protecting-extremely-vulnerable-persons-from-covid-19/guidance-on-shielding-and-protecting-extremely-vulnerable-persons-from-covid-19

Check this is the right guidance for you

Patients who are not on immunosuppressive treatments as above, are not classed as clinically extremely vulnerable.  If you have not been told by us, your GP or had a letter stating that you classed as clinically extremely vulnerable, then you should follow the  guidance on staying alert and safe (social distancing).

Handwashing and respiratory hygiene

There are general principles you should follow to help prevent the spread of airway and chest infections caused by respiratory viruses, including:

• wash your hands frequently with soap and water for at least 20 seconds or use a hand sanitiser. Do this after you blow your nose, sneeze or cough before you eat or handle food and always immediately when you return home
• avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands
• cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue, then throw the tissue in a bin
• clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces in the home