THIS SUMMARY IS SUBJECT TO CHANGE AT SHORT NOTICE AS THE GOVERNMENT RELEASES ITS OWN UPDATES – THIS SUMMARY WAS LAST UPDATED MONDAY 23RD MARCH 2020
Dear Friends,
These are extraordinary times; coronavirus (COVID-19) represents a nearly unprecedented challenge to our healthcare systems and a danger to all of us.
An important question that we need to contemplate is how will coronavirus (COVID-19) affect individuals with Cervical Myelopathy?
At the moment, there is no data related to coronavirus (COVID-19) and Cervical Myelopathy. The latest Public Health England guidance states that, in addition to people over 70, anyone with a chronic neurological condition is at increased risk of a severe illness from coronavirus (COVID-19).
I think we need to err on the side of caution and consider individuals with Cervical Myelopathy to potentially be at an increased risk. I therefore urge you to read and follow the latest advice and guidance published in your home countries.
The UK Government and the NHS provides comprehensive information relating to the coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak and in particular is urging any individual in a group which is identified as being at increased risk of a severe illness from coronavirus (COVID-19) to follow the social distancing advice. In addition, the US Centre of Disease Control provides the following guidance for people at increased risk which you may find useful.
Our primary concern is everyone’s health and well-being. We understand that there is a lot of uncertainty at the moment and that this can be unsettling. We will provide as much information as we can, as soon as we can.
Our staff are working from home so please do get in touch via email or on our Facebook Support Group. We are continuing to work to support the Cervical Myelopathy community in these challenging times.
Stay safe and we will be in touch again with further updates.
With best wishes,
Dr Mark Kotter (Founder of Myelopathy.org)