Coronavirus Update – Last updated 13 March 2020
We want to reassure you that we are closely following government and Public Health England advice reguarding COVID-19.
Any virus, especially one like COVID-19, can be more severe to people with MS as many may have suppressed immune systems. This is mainly due to their medication, as disease-modifying drugs work on different parts of the immune system to reduce the inflammation caused by MS to nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord. Our top priority is to ensure the safety of our members, carers, staff and volunteers at all times.
We are therefore asking everyone who comes to the Centre to follow these precautions to help minimise the risk of infection:
- If you have symptoms of coronavirus infection, however mild, stay at home and do not leave your house for 7 days from when your symptoms started. Symptoms are:
- a high temperature
- a new continuous cough
- Use the hand sanitiser provided before entering the building if you are visiting the Centre.
- Wash your hands regularly for 20 seconds, each time using soap and water whilst at the Centre.
We have increased the frequency of our cleaning regime in order to minimise the risk of infection.
We recognise that our members and volunteers may be feeling anxious about coming in to the Centre, as you may be more vulnerable. It is entirely your decision if you come to the Centre or not, but please give us as much notice as possible if you are not attending your appointments or volunteering session.
Members are welcome to bring a family member or carer into their physiotherapy sessions or classes, so they can learn how to best support you with your home programme, if for any reason you are unable to attend the Centre due to Coronavirus in the future. Please speak to your physio to arrange this prior to them attending with you.
You can see all of the latest governement advice at https://www.gov.uk/guidance/coronavirus-covid-19-information-for-the-public
If the situation changes we will post updates on our website, on social media and around the building.
We want to thank everyone for your co-operation.