New global COVID-19 advice for people with MS

Source: Multiple Sclerosis International Federation https://www.msif.org/news/2020/10/23/…

Having MS does not seem to put people at an increased risk of either contracting COVID-19 or of developing a more severe case.

However, the latest evidence shows that certain groups of people with MS are at a greater risk of experiencing a more severe case of COVID-19. Risk factors: being older, having other health concerns such as obesity, diabetes, heart or lung conditions, high levels of disability (for example an EDSS score of 6 or above).

But some of these higher risk groups are specific to MS, for example those with progressive MS or people taking certain disease modifying therapies (DMTs) for their MS. T

he updated advice for people with MS and their clinicians is to consider all factors when thinking about starting or changing therapies during the COVID-19 pandemic. It is important people with MS do not stop any treatment without talking to their doctor. The complex balance of risks and benefits of taking any MS treatment should be discussed, taking into account individual circumstances.

People with MS need to balance protecting themselves from the risk of the virus with activities that help them maintain good health and well-being.