Important update about COVID-19

UPDATED 30th March: we now have a dedicated COVID-19 page where you can access up to date information relevant to the Alert Level 4 Lockdown situation.

Click here to access our COVID-19 page 

We’re aware that people living with MND and their families may be concerned about the spread of COVID-19, also known as coronavirus. 

While people living with MND are vulnerable when it comes to flu and viruses, there are measures you can take to protect yourself. 

The Ministry of Health (MOH) has issued guidelines on how to keep healthy and reduce the spread of the virus. The MOH is regularly reviewing the situation and providing updates, which can be viewed via this link: https://www.health.govt.nz/our-work/diseases-and-conditions/covid-19-novel-coronavirus. The MOH have advised that information specific to people with disabilities will be added today. 

MND New Zealand Medical Advisor Dr James Cleland, Neurologist, says: “Be cautious and careful, but above all, don’t panic. The MOH has been very pro-active, doing their best to minimise the impact of this in New Zealand. While this is a constantly evolving situation, making sure you are familiar with the latest MOH updates on the link above reduces risk to yourself and others. My policy has been to do my best with the basic things like hand washing, avoiding close contact (e.g. handshakes), and avoiding overseas travel unless necessary. If in doubt, get in touch with your healthcare provider, or review the recommendations on the MOH website“. 

We also suggest you ask people who are unwell not to visit your home, and if you’re feeling hesitant about attending appointments, consult the person or organisation to discuss your concerns.

We will continue supporting all our MND families as best we can and at this stage, support team members will still conduct home visits. If you would prefer not to have face to face contact, your support team member can interact with you via phone, video calls or emails instead. 

If you or anyone within your household is feeling unwell and you are expecting a visit from your support team member, it is imperative that you contact them as soon as you can to organise an alternative method of support. As is our usual process, support team members will not visit your home if they are unwell.  

We’re receiving frequent updates from the Ministry of Health and will share information as it becomes available. By working together we can all help to keep our community safer.