This page will feature the latest ABN updates on COVID-19 as they become available.
ABN Guidance on third primary covid-19 vaccine dose for people who are immunosuppressed
Summary
People with weakened immune systems who have received two COVD-19 jabs may not respond fully and may not be sufficiently protected against infection. The Joint Committee on Vaccination and Immunisation (JCVI) has therefore recommended
a third vaccine dose for people who are immunosuppressed as a result of receiving certain treatments or having particular conditions. This is relevant to neurology patients, some of whom take steroids or immunosuppressive drugs, or
have immune conditions that affect the nervous system.
This is not a booster or top-up jab to correct the mild reduction in immunity that may occur more than 6 months following a second dose of a COVID-19 jab in people with a normal immune system. Specialists in collaboration with
general practitioners will identify patients who need a third primary dose of vaccine and the optimal timing.
Guidance may be updated and a joint statement is expected from the Royal College of Physicians by mid-September on identifying people who are severely immunosuppressed and should be offered a third vaccine dose.
Jon Sussman, Hon. Secretary Association of British Neurologists
10 September 2021
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ABN guidance on COVID-19 for neurology patients
The ABN has published guidance relating to COVID-19 vaccinations. It can be seen here.
It is important to note that the government has identified a range of neurological conditions associated with an increased risk from COVID-19. The details come from this publication. The neurological conditions are chronic conditions that may be very mild but can also be severe, sometimes only after many years. We do not believe that people with very mild cases of these conditions are at significant risk from COVID-19.
The research identified conditions that were associated with a bad outcome from COVID-19 but did not assess the severity of the cases. We therefore feel that people with mild epilepsy or Parkinson's can be reassured that they are not
at greatly increased risk.
The ABN will continue to review this guidance regularly.
12 January 2021
Update 23 February 2021: Following the rollout of vaccination for COVID-19, the groups who are 'clinically extremely vulnerable' has been increased by 1.7 million people. This reflects better understanding of the
risk factors for a more severe course of COVID-19. This information is available in the media and ABN guidance will be updated shortly to reflect these changes.
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Brain & Spine Foundation - Tailored information and support for anyone affected by a neurological problem.
ABN Guidance on COVID-19 for people with neurological conditions, their doctors and carers
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