Coronavirus and epilepsy.

[QueenofmyPrinces]

Last night BJ said that people with chronic conditions should be social distancing, including neurological conditions. I have epilepsy but this is not listed on their ‘example list’ of chronic neurological conditions.

I have done some grading around and it does say that for various reasons the CV19 can trigger seizures in people with epilepsy and lead to complications afterwards.

I also get offered the flu jab via my GP surgery every year - which is also included in the Governments example of vulnerable people.

I’m a nurse so not the best place to be if trying to avoid the virus and I’m unsure whether I should be going into work or not?

I know already that my place if work has not been supportive of staff needing to take time off to isolate due to having symptoms so I can’t see them letting me having time off because of my epilepsy.

Does anyone else on here have epilepsy? And are you taking extra precautions?

I have spent some time reading about this. Epilepsy without any other underlying or co-existing conditions doesn't seem to be seen as a directly at risk category. What is highlighted is that it may increase the risk of seizures threshold for people who tend to have seizures triggered by being unwell or having high temperature.
In saying that I am not a specialist, a doctor or even in the medical profession I have just read up the latest advice from all the main epilepsy organisations, none of whom are detailing any special measures or extra precautions.
As someone who has a family member with epilepsy, I would say the extra precautions we will take are all the usual measures of maintaining healthy routines (exercise, good nutrition, making sure we dont run out of medication, getting enough sleep and managing stress as best as possible).
I hope you stay well and can appropriately get time off if you need it.

Thanks mumajoy.

I will give my Occupational Health department a call and see what they say.