Coronavirus and epilepsy

2 minute read

Fast facts

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Coronavirus (COVID-19) is a new illness that affects your lungs and airways
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The main symptoms of COVID-19 are a high temperature (fever) a new, continuous cough, and a loss or change to your sense of smell or taste. Most people will have at least one of these symptoms
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There is some evidence that people with epilepsy could have a slightly increased risk from coronavirus. This doesn’t mean you need to shield, but it’s important to follow the general guidance about social distancing to keep yourself safe
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Some people with epilepsy have other health conditions alongside their epilepsy, which may put them at increased risk of complications
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Some people with epilepsy are more likely to have a seizure when they are unwell, particularly if they have a high temperature (fever). Fever is a symptom of coronavirus, so it’s possible this could trigger seizures for some people with epilepsy
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Most people with epilepsy can safely wear simple cloth face coverings
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People aged 16-64 with epilepsy are in one of the priority groups to get the COVID-19 vaccine

You need to stay at home (self-isolate) if you’ve been told to by the
NHS Test and Trace service or if you, or someone you live with:

Keep up to date. The Epilepsy Action website has up to date information for people with epilepsy concerned about coronavirus (COVID-19). This includes answers to frequently asked questions and signposting to support
Follow the guidance about social distancing to keep yourself safe
It’s important to plan in advance how you would get your medicines in case you need to self-isolate. This could be getting a friend or family member to collect your prescriptions for you. Or you could make arrangements for your pharmacy to deliver your medicines to your home
Pharmacies are still open, but many have changed their opening hours to help them manage demand. Check with your local pharmacy to find out their opening hours before making a journey
If you live alone, have a plan to keep in regular contact with friends, family members or neighbours while self-isolating. You could ask them to contact you regularly by phone or text to check you are ok. This is especially important if you have uncontrolled seizures
You may be feeling anxious about coronavirus or your epilepsy. The Epilepsy Space pages on emotions and wellbeing may help
If you need to talk about a concern you can call the Epilepsy Action Helpline on 0808 800 5050. At this time the helpline continues to be available during its normal opening hours link
If you have been out wash your hands as soon as you get home
If you find that wearing a face covering makes you feel uncomfortable or anxious, it’s worth trying different ones