This page is for general advice for people with neurological conditions and carers.
From April 2021, the British Government withdrew their recommendation that clinical extremely vulnerable (CEV) adults should shield. The Association of British Neurologists would still recommend that people at greatest risk from complications of COVID-19 continue to follow general recommendations on hand washing and face covering to minimise the risk of contracting the virus.
In September 2021 the Association of British Neurologists published a statement for CEV individuals relating to the Covid-19 vaccination programme. A third dose of the vaccine, not a booster, is recommended for immunosuppressed adults.
Other information
There are many neurological conditions, and there will be issues that are specific to certain conditions. Some of our member charities have suggested pages with advice and information for people with specific conditions.
We also recommend that you check with charities that work with people with your condition in order to get condition specific advice.
See the latest coronavirus information from Scottish Government and NHS Inform.
Scottish Government and other support
If you do not qualify for a free flu jab because of your health condition (or the person you support doesn't) the Scottish Government says you should contact Ready Scotland if you need practical support.
There is also a free Coronavirus (COVID-19) helpline for people without symptoms who want general information: 0800 028 2816 Opening hours: Monday - Friday, 8.00am - 10.00pm Saturday and Sunday, 9.00am to 5.00pm
Am I more likely to get coronavirus?
It depends on your condition. Most people with a neurological condition are not at a greater risk than anyone else of catching coronavirus.
If you live with other people, they do not have to self-isolate, but they should follow social distancing measures to protect you. These include:
- keeping 2 metres (3 steps) away from you with and sleeping in a different bed where possible
- using a separate bathroom from you. If you share a toilet and bathroom with others, it’s important that they are cleaned after use every time
- consider drawing up a rota for bathing, with you using the facilities first
- do not share bath or hand towels
- avoid using the kitchen and eating with you - you should eat in your own room, if you can
- use a dishwasher if you have one. If not, wash up using your usual washing up liquid and warm water
- use a separate tea towel for drying crockery and cutlery
Everyone in your household should:
- regularly wash their hands
- avoid touching their face
- clean frequently touched surfaces
Am I more likely to develop complications?
Some groups of people have an increased risk of complications if they get coronavirus. These groups include everyone over 70, people who are pregnant, and some people with long term conditions.
The Scottish Government has specifically named some neurological conditions as placing people at a greater risk - specifically Parkinson's disease, motor neurone disease, multiple sclerosis (MS), a learning disability or cerebral palsy. This is not an exhaustive list - the Scottish Government says that if you would normally qualify for an NHS flu vaccination because of your condition, you should consider that you are at greater risk.
The Scottish Government says that people who are at risk should be strict about social distancing.
I care for someone with a neurological condition. What do I need to know?
It’s important for everyone in contact with someone with a neurological condition to follow Scottish Government and NHS Scotland advice, such as good hand hygiene and social distancing.
Here is basic hygiene advice:
- Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, or use hand sanitiser.
- Cough or sneeze into a tissue, put the tissue in the bin immediately, and wash your hands afterwards.
- If you are unable to use a tissue, cough or sneeze into your elbow or shoulder, not your hands
For some people with neurological conditions, handwashing can be more difficult, and it's important to take extra care. Sandra Mackay, an Occupational Therapist based at Cerebral Palsy Scotland has developed this helpful guide to handwashing for people with neurological conditions.
Carers Scotland and the Carers’ Trust Scotland have been involved in creating this helpful guidance for carers, including your rights to support, and how to create a contingency plan in case you or someone else in your household becomes unwell.
