CoMO's Covid-19 Statement
Given the current situation with the novel coronavirus (Covid-19), we understand that all individuals and organisations are impacted and we sincerely hope that you are all well and keeping safe. At the time of writing (24th February 2021), the WHO reports that there are over 111 million cases worldwide. While the delivery of Covid-19 immunisations is promising, this situation is one that we’ll likely be living with for some time.
What’s become clear to us, as a global meningitis membership organisation and patient advocacy group, is that this pandemic has had knock-on effects on other areas of health. Not only has it exacerbated pre-existing inequalities but it has caused a fall in vaccine uptake and placed a strain on the resources available for other diseases.
Covid-19 and meningitis
We’re keeping in touch with our scientific advisors to gauge any potential links between meningitis and Covid-19. So far, it is clear that in a few rare cases, Covid-19 has led to viral meningitis and that there’s been coinfection of Covid-19 and bacterial meningitis.
Currently, there’s no research about meningitis survivors being at a heightened risk of Covid-19.
We can all follow local public health guidelines to reduce the risk of community transmission but that doesn’t mean you have to avoid going to the doctor if you have an appointment to be vaccinated. Some places will have adapted immunisation service delivery so they can continue safely under these challenging circumstances. Importantly, if you suspect you or a loved one has meningitis it’s vital to get to the hospital quickly because the disease develops rapidly and can take a life.
Related resources:
Meningitis and the Olympics: Japan 2020
Raising awareness of meningitis during Covid-19
Protecting people during Covid-19: Preventing the preventable
World Mental Health Day: Invisible but Impactful
As the uncertainty continues, we've pulled together some information to help keep up to date on Covid-19:
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Johns Hopkins University: total number of cases globally.
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If cases are rising where you live, simple precautions can help protect you, your loved ones, and your community. Learn about transmission.
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World Health Organisation (WHO): get the information you need to bust common myths about Covid-19.
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Q&A: the WHO has prepared a Q&A webpage about Covid-19.
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European Centre for Disease Control: if you’re in Europe, find out relevant Covid-19 information for your country.
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Africa Centre for Disease Control and Prevention: Find publications and resources on Covid-19.
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Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: Find the latest resources, advice and updates regarding Covid-19 for the United States of America.
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You can learn more about vaccine safety and preventing meningitis on our Prevention webpage.
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Official governmental public health websites.
References
[1] https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S1201971220301958
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