People with ALS (PALS) could be at risk for serious illness by the novel coronavirus, COVID – 19, due to diminished respiratory health, and they can also be affected in many other ways.  Preparation is needed to plan for disruptions in home care, medication, supplies, etc.  Here is a suggested Plan of Action to help prepare:

• Make arrangements for alternate caregivers if your primary caregiver becomes ill
• If your caregivers are from a nursing agency or they are a private duty caregiver be sure to remind them not to visit if they or someone in their family have a fever, cough, or shortness of breath
• Make an emergency contact list
• Contact your medical provider to order extra medications if necessary (for example a 90 day prescription instead of a 30 day)
• Order prescriptions by mail if possible
• Avoid crowds as much as possible
• Stock up on household supplies, food, and medical related products that you routinely use
• Prepare a room for a family member to have separate living quarters if they get sick

IF YOU GET SICK, the CDC recommends: 

• Stay home and call your physician
• Call your healthcare provider and let them know about your symptoms. Tell them that you have or may have COVID-19. This will help them take care of you and keep other people from getting infected or exposed.
• If you are not sick enough to be hospitalized, you can recover at home. Follow CDC instructions for how to take care of yourself at home.
• If you develop emergency warning signs for COVID-19 get medical attention immediately. In adults, emergency warning signs*:
  • Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath
  • Persistent pain or pressure in the chest
  • New confusion or inability to arouse
  • Bluish lips or face*This list is not all inclusive. Please consult your medical provider for any other symptoms that are severe or concerning.

See our earlier post about prevention and treatment: COVID – 19 and ALS

Watch Navigate ALS with Neil: Don’t Push Your Limits – COVID 19

For more information from the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) click here:  People at Risk for Serious Illness from COVID – 19
Here is a helpful video from the CDC explaining preparation: