@AmyS 

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AmyS

MS, Covid and Work

Hi, hoping for some advice - I have emailed my neurologist but waiting a while to hear back so thought I'd see what people on here think. I work as a secondary school teacher. Have been teaching remotely but deciding about returning. This week there is a training day (staggered in small groups) then possible return of some students in small groups and a staff rota. My school are being very supportive of staff with health conditions so I do not need to go in, but honestly I do partly want to! But only if it seems safe. My school are taking every precaution using large classrooms with all windows open, cleaning, desks spaced 2m apart etc. From many things I have read MS isn't likely to affect getting covid more seriously than anyone else. However it is listed on the secondary risk list from the govt. But my symptoms are fairly mild and not had a relapse in a couple of years. Would appreciate thoughts on this, thanks!
@Vixen

Hi @amys, I don't really have any advice, but maybe could say a coupla things. I work in a school, too, part of SLT so not teaching. So, my job is pretty doable from home. Other risk factors for you would be how you travel to work; this is probably of greater significance if you think about it. And like me, you are in the 'clinically vulnerable' group I guess. And of course, we seem to have dropped off of the radar, given the utter chaotic handling of this crisis. You're right about the evidence of people with MS appearing to be no worse off. And our risk level on Tecfidera (are you on that?) was assessed as relatively low. However, catching something severe, like a really bad cold, or the flu, can affect us more as having an infection can cause an exacerbation, flare-up or even a relapse. Annual flu jabs help reduce that risk. Your school will have done a risk assessment. I mean, it's a risk for anyone going back into school at the moment, and so it's great that your school are supporting you. Are you a member of a teaching union? You could maybe consult them. At the end of the day, it's down to you. In my case, I can't see me going back before the summer holiday. Good luck with your decision, be good to know how you get on :-)

@Gilliland-Hair

I am a 1-1 learning support in a primary school and I would love to go back properly . I’m on Tecfidera but unfortunately my lymphocyte count has dropped too low and I am in the extremely vulnerable list at the moment. Having bloods every month. I’m not sure what medication you are on but just ensure you attend blood tests etc and then you can make a decision from there. In the meantime I am working one day a week only, which I should say involves a child with SEN that cannot comprehend not touching or being extremely close to me at times and would not stand me wearing ppe. I made my decision also as there are low cases in my area and I love supporting the child I care for so much!