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Coronavirus (COVID-19)

Jan. 06, 2022

Fight Parkinson’s is closely monitoring the coronavirus (COVID-19) situation as it develops in Victoria: UPDATED 6 January 2022

COVID-19 Update: 6 January 2022

As the number of COVID cases rise, the risk of being exposed or identified as a ‘household or household-like’ contact, and the need to test and isolate until you get a result, also increases.

The Victorian Government has a checklist to help prepare for COVID-19 and isolating.

Taking sensible measures like avoiding crowds, meeting outdoors and wearing a face mask when you are unable to physically distance will help, however it’s always good to be prepared.

Tips

• Make sure you always have seven days’ worth of medication at home in case you need to isolate
• Speak with you pharmacist about delivering medication - your GP can send a script directly to the pharmacy if needed
• Try online shopping or ask if a family member can drop off any essential items
• Plan for your COVID-19 booster shot - make the booking now so you can receive it when eligible
• When booking your booster, you don’t need to go back to the same doctor or vaccination centre.

As of 4 January, based on the expert medical advice of the Australian Technical Advisory Group on Immunisation (ATAGI), the Federal Government reduced the required interval between primary vaccination and booster dose to four months. More information on the Parkinson’s and COVID-19 vaccination doses is in our vaccination statement.

If you have any questions about COVID-19 and your Parkinson’s, we’re here from 9am – 5pm, Monday to Friday on 1800 644 189. You can leave a message after hours and we will return your call.

COVID-19 Update: August 2021

As the Delta strain continues to impact Australia, COVID-19 restrictions continue to change in Victoria.

For up-to-date restrictions for Melbourne and regional Victoria, visit the Victorian Government’s Coronavirus website.

You can find current exposure sites here.

Our vaccination statement remains the same. Read more here.

COVID-19 Update: 4 June 2021

The restrictions in place to keep Victorians safe from coronavirus were eased in regional Victoria last night (3 June), following advice from Victoria’s Chief Health Officer.

From 11.59pm, the five reasons to leave the home was removed in regional Victoria and there is no limit on the distance regional Victorians can travel from home. However, some restrictions including wearing masks indoors continue.

From the same time, a further 7-day period of Circuit Breaker restrictions came into effective for Metropolitan Melbourne.

Service Victoria QR check-in is also now mandatory in retail settings such as supermarkets and shops across the state. Customers must now check in whenever they attend a venue – the minimum of 15 minutes will no longer apply.

All Victorians continue to be urged to get tested if they have any symptoms and get vaccinated.

A full description of restrictions are detailed on the Victorian Government’s Coronavirus website.

COVID-19 Update: 25 May 2021

The State Government today announced additional COVIDSafe measures across Greater Melbourne in response to the latest outbreak in Melbourne’s northern suburbs. 

From 6pm tonight: 

• private gatherings in the home will be limited to five visitors per day 
• public gatherings will be limited to 30 people, with the exception of official venues with COVID-safe plans and existing density limits, eg café and restaurants, 
• face masks will need to be worn indoors by everyone aged 12 years and older, unless an exemption applies.  

Check in using the Service Victoria QR code service will still be mandatory as an important tool for contact tracing 

Victorians who live in Greater Melbourne who need to travel to regional Victoria can still do so, however, the restrictions travel with them. 

The Government urges all Victorians to maintain COVIDSafe behaviours to keep our community safe and most importantly, get tested if unwell and stay isolated until you receive a negative result. 

All eligible Victorians are also urged to get vaccinated as soon as possible. Scroll down to read our vaccination statement.

For more information about current COVIDSafe updates, visit the Government's coronavirus website.

COVID-19 Update: 28 April 2021

States and territories will begin vaccinating people in Phase 2a in May, starting with all adults 50 years and over.

• From 3 May 2021, people 50 years and over can receive the AstraZeneca vaccine at General Practice Respiratory Clinics and state vaccination clinics.
• From 17 May 2021, people 50 years and over can receive the AstraZeneca vaccine at a participating general practice.
• From 17 May, people aged under 50 years living with Parkinson's or Atypical Parkinson's will be able to receive the Pfizer vaccine. Bookings are required by phoning 1800 675 398. 

The COVID-19 vaccine also remains available for people with Parkinson’s and Atypical Parkinson’s (PSP, MSA and CBS) under Stage 1B of the roll-out. Carers are also eligible but must provide carer documentation or complete an Eligibility Declaration Form. 

With the 2021 Influenza vaccination program also being rolled out, it's important to plan for the influenza (flu) and COVID-19 vaccination as a separation period of at least 14 days between the two is recommended.

Fight Parkinson’s encourages people living with Parkinson’s and Atypical Parkinson’s (PSP, MSA or CBS) to receive both the COVID-19 and flu vaccines.

These vaccines are safe to have when you are living with Parkinson’s and do not interact with the cause of Parkinson's or any of the treatments. It’s normal to feel slightly unwell after a vaccination.

We recommend you make initial contact with your GP to discuss when, where and how to make appointments for vaccination, taking into account your individual circumstances.

Fight Parkinson’s statement on COVID-19 vaccination and Parkinson’s

This statement was first released on 16 February and updated in April 2021. It is based on the review undertaken by the International Movement Disorder Society’s Scientific Issues Committee on 12 January 2021 and the Australians Technical Advisory Group on Immunisation in April 2021.

The aim of this statement is to provide information to people living with Parkinson’s and Atypical Parkinson’s to assist them in making an informed decision regarding COVID-19 vaccination:

Keeping the Parkinson’s community safe and informed is a primary objective of Fight Parkinson’s. 

Fight Parkinson’s has reviewed available scientific information on the COVID-19 vaccines and the impact on people living with Parkinson’s and Atypical Parkinson’s around the world.

Fight Parkinson’s is aware that approval for vaccines has occurred or is underway in many countries around the world. In Australia, the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) is responsible for reviewing the available data and the approval and safe roll out of vaccination programs.

Vaccination is used to reduce the risk of contracting COVID-19. It is not a treatment for COVID 19. The vaccines have to date been identified as being highly effective in preventing severe and mild forms of COVID-19 infection in the vast majority of people who receive them.

The main community concern is around the speed in which these vaccines have been developed. It is important to understand there has been a concerted global effort to develop these vaccines and they are based on many years of scientific research and published information.

The available types of vaccines developed for the COVID-19 vaccination program (known as mRNA and Vector vaccines) induce an immune response to the COVID-19 virus that do not interact with the currently known (neurodegenerative) pathways that cause Parkinson’s symptoms.

There does not appear to be any interaction between the inflammatory processes that are thought to be associated with Parkinson’s and the immunity response to these vaccines.

Similar to other vaccines, the COVID-19 vaccination does not interact with current Parkinson’s treatments. There have been some reported side effects experienced by people who have received the vaccine, in most instances these are considered as allergic reaction and include mild pain and irritation at the injection site, mild fever, and headache.

The published vaccine phase 3 clinical trial data has shown the incidence of side effects and the impact was the same for people living with Parkinson’s compared to the general population.

In rare occasions a syndrome involving blood clots and low platelet counts (Thrombosis and Thrombocytopenia) has developed following use of the Astra Zeneca COVID-19 vaccination has been reported.

The Australian Technical Advisory Group on Immunisation (ATAGI) has reported it has considered the latest data form Europe and the United Kingdom regarding the incidence of blood clots and low platelet counts (thrombosis and thrombocytopenia) and has recommended that people under 50 have the Comirnaty COVID-19 Vaccine (Pfizer).

It is important to note the Astra Zeneca remains seen as highly effective at preventing death and serious illness in people who contract COVID-19 and the incidence of thrombosis and thrombocytopenia is extremely rare.

The ATAGI has recommended the Astra Zeneca vaccination can be used in adults under 50 where the benefits outweigh the risks, and they are able to provide informed consent. This may include people living with long term illness or conditions where they would be compromised if they contracted a COVID 19-infection.

For people in the 1a and 1b groups, the AGTI has recommended if you have had your first COVID-19 vaccination with no side affects, you are safe to have your second dose.

Living with Parkinson’s in the community does not increase your risk of contracting COVID-19, however the symptoms of Parkinson’s may affect your recovery if you contracted COVID-19.

Fight Parkinson’s recommends you discuss the COVID-19 vaccination with your GP or Neurologist and in line with recommendations of the International Movement Disorder Society and Australian Government advice, encourages people living with Parkinson’s to receive the COVID-19 vaccination when it is available.

This recommendation is given because of the overwhelming benefits, with the risks being the same for people living with Parkinson’s as with the aged matched general population.

Prepared February 2021. Updated April 2021

References

www.movementdisorders.org/COVID-19-Pandemic-MDS/MDS-COVID-19-Vaccine-Statement-for-Patients

www.parkinsons.org.uk/news/coronavirus-vaccine-and-parkinsons#:~:text=On%202%20December%202020%20the,to%2095%25%20protection%20against%20coronavirus.

www.elsevier.com/__data/assets/pdf_file/0003/1106679/Pfizer-BioNTech-COVID-19-Vaccine-Pt-Education_12.21.2020.pdf

www.elsevier.com/__data/assets/pdf_file/0004/1106680/Moderna-COVID-19-Vaccine-Patient-Education_12.21.2020.pdf

www.health.gov.au/news/joint-statement-on-covid-19-astrazeneca-vaccine-advice-from-atagi

www.health.gov.au/news/joint-statement-on-astrazeneca-covid-19-vaccine-in-response-to-new-vaccine-safety-concerns

www.health.gov.au/news/atagi-statement-on-astrazeneca-vaccine-in-response-to-new-vaccine-safety-concerns

www.health.gov.au/resources/collections/covid-19-vaccination-advice-for-covid-19-vaccine-providers#fact-sheets-and-guides

Polack FP, Thomas SJ, Kitchin N, Absalon J, Gurtman A, Lockhart S, Perez JL, Pérez Marc G, Moreira ED, Zerbini C, Bailey R, Swanson KA, Roychoudhury S, Koury K, Li P, Kalina WV, Cooper D, Frenck RW Jr, Hammitt LL, Türeci Ö, Nell H, Schaefer A, Ünal S, Tresnan DB, Mather S, Dormitzer PR, Şahin U, Jansen KU, Gruber WC; C4591001 Clinical Trial Group. Safety and Efficacy of the BNT162b2 mRNA Covid-19 Vaccine. N Engl J Med. 2020 Dec 10. doi: 10.1056/NEJMoa2034577. Online ahead of print.PMID: 33301246

Jackson LA, Anderson EJ, Rouphael NG, Roberts PC, Makhene M, Coler RN, McCullough MP, Chappell JD, Denison MR, Stevens LJ, Pruijssers AJ, McDermott A, Flach B, Doria-Rose NA, Corbett KS, Morabito KM, O'Dell S, Schmidt SD, Swanson PA 2nd, Padilla M, Mascola JR, Neuzil KM, Bennett H, Sun W, Peters E, Makowski M, Albert J, Cross K, Buchanan W, Pikaart-Tautges R, Ledgerwood JE, Graham BS, Beigel JH; mRNA-1273 Study Group. An mRNA Vaccine against SARS-CoV-2 - Preliminary Report. N Engl J Med. 2020 Nov 12;383(20):1920-1931. doi: 10.1056/NEJMoa2022483. Epub 2020 Jul 14.PMID: 32663912

Disclaimer

The contents of this position statement are intended for informational purposes only. Fight Parkinson’s shall in no event accept any liability for loss or damage suffered by any person or body due to information provided on this site or linked sites.

The information on the Fight Parkinson’s website is provided on the basis that persons accessing the website undertake responsibility for assessing the relevance and accuracy of its content.

COVID-19 Update: 24 September 2020

We received a number of calls yesterday relating to media coverage of a research paper by the Florey Institute of Neuroscience and Mental Health which looked at the link between COVID-19 and increased risk of developing Parkinson’s.

People should not be alarmed by this research which raises the need for early detection of neurodegenerative conditions (illnesses related to progressive loss of structure or function of nerve cells) through assessment, screening and consideration of medical and individual history.

This research paper considers potential on-going effects of COVID-19, particularly in relation to inflammation of the brain, and calls for a strategic approach to long-term monitoring of people who have been infected with COVID-19 and better, more accurate tools to diagnose Parkinson’s in its early stages.

Fight Parkinson’s welcomes all research with the potential to improve the lives of people diagnosed with Parkinson’s.

It is through increasing our knowledge and developing early and accurate diagnostic techniques that we can make greater inroads into effective treatments and therapies for everyone diagnosed with Parkinson’s.
 

COVID-19 Update: 21 July 2020

People living in metropolitan Melbourne and the Mitchell Shire will be required to wear a face covering outside the home after 11.59pm tomorrow (Wednesday 22 July), unless an exemption applies.

A face covering needs to cover both your nose and mouth. It can be a face mask or shield.  

Coronavirus (COVID-19) is spread from close contact with a person with the virus. Face coverings are helpful to stop droplets spreading when someone speaks, laughs, coughs, or sneezes, including someone who has coronavirus (COVID-19) and is contagious, but feels well. 

A face mask is recommended, and includes any paper or textile covering designed or made to be worn over the nose and mouth to protect the wearer.

It does not have to be medical grade and you can make your own. If a face mask is not available, other forms of face covering may be used such as a scarf or bandana. 

There are many suppliers selling fabric face masks online and local people sewing fabric masks are being promoted via community Facebook groups.

There are also instructions on how to make a mask on the Department of Health website, while you can buy disposable paper face masks online or at most pharmacies.

To get the greatest benefit from wearing a mask:

• wash your hands before you touch the mask
• only handle the mask by the ear straps or ties
• wash your hands again once you have put it on
• make sure it covers your mouth and nose
• try not to touch your face and don’t pull it down to speak
• try to only touch the ear straps when you take it off
• dispose of paper masks after they have been worn.
• a cloth mask should be washed every day after use.

Read more information about the State Goverment's compulsory face mask order, including FAQs and exemptions.

Remember that face coverings add an additional protective physical barrier, but the best way to protect people against coronavirus is staying home when you feel unwell, keeping 1.5 metres apart, washing your hands often and coughing or sneezing into your elbow or tissue.

COVID-19 Update: 9 July 2020

People living in metropolitan Melbourne – and the Mitchell Shire - moved back to Stage 3 ‘stay at home’ restrictions at midnight last night (Wednesday).

As indicated by Victorian Premier Dan Andrews, the current increase in people testing positive to COVID-19 includes a high number of community transmission cases, which differs from the initial outbreak which included many returned overseas travellers.

This means it is more important than ever to follow the Government advice to stay safe over the next six weeks.

This includes hand hygiene and social distancing protocols and adhering to the stage three restrictions to remain at home with the exception of four reasons:

1. Shopping for food or other essential items
2. For compassionate reasons, to provide care or seek medical treatment
3. For outdoor exercise
4. For work or study, if you cannot do so from home.

Fight Parkinson’s is here to support you and our community through the challenges COVID-19 is presenting. You are never alone on your Parkinson’s journey. If you need to speak to someone, call us on 1800 644 189 or email, info@fightparkinsons.org.au

• Parkinson’s is a condition with symptoms that can develop and change over time. Stress and anxiety can effect symptoms, and may also impact medication. Get in touch with your GP or neurologist if you are experiencing any changes.

• Even the most resilient people may feel the mental impacts of the current restrictions. Remember, Beyond Blue has a coronavirus mental health support service.

• Have you been doing exercise? Try to stay active during these restrictions. A walk around the block is good for both physical and mental health. You can also check out our guide to Parkinson’s exercise programs you can watch and take part in from the comfort of your own home. 

• Living with Parkinson’s does not increase your risk of contracting COVID 19, but it may have a greater impact. If you are concerned about visitors, download and print one of our COVID-19 visitor posters to stick up at your front door or window to let people know you are vulnerable. The posters cover deliveries and visitors.

• Take up our offer of 12 months’ free Fight Parkinson’s membership offer with benefits including the quarterly InMotion magazine sent direct to your inbox. Call us on 03 8809 0400 to sign up.

Our Surrey Hills office remains closed, but we are available over the phone and online for support and advice. Call our office on 8809 0400 for general enquiries, our health information line on 1800 644 189 or email info@fightparkinsons.org.au

COVID-19 Update: 1 July 2020

Fight Parkinson’s has urged people with Parkinson’s living in Melbourne’s COVID-19 hotspot suburbs to follow all Government directions to bring the current outbreak under control.

As previously stated, people with Parkinson’s and Atypical Parkinson’s are at risk of experiencing more severe symptoms if they contract COVID-19.

Premier Dan Andrews yesterday announced that from 11.59pm tonight (1 July 2020), there will be changes in restrictions to respond to the increase in case numbers and to help reduce the risk of further transmission.

Restrictions apply to specific areas experiencing a high level of transmission or are at high risk of transmission. People living in stated restricted postcodes must stay at home with exception of these four reasons:

• Shopping for food or other essential items
• To providing care, for compassionate reasons or to seek medical treatment
• For exercise (outdoor exercise only, with only one other person or members of your household)
• Work or study, if you cannot work or study from home

The following areas are at a higher risk of transmission. To slow the spread of coronavirus (COVID-19) Stay at Home restrictions apply to these areas:

To learn more about these restrictions visit the DHHS website.

“Separation from family and friends will be extremely distressing for some members of the Parkinson’s community who live within these areas. This increase stress can have an impact on condition and worsen symptoms..” Parkinson's Victoria CEO Emma Collin said.

The current outbreak is a reminder of how quickly clusters can grow if not contained.

Now that the Victorian school holidays have commenced, grandparents who live outside of the identified hotspots who are able to visit or host family and friends need to be particularly careful.

“Remember to obey restrictions advice and for those outside of these hot spot areas the household visitor limits and remind loved ones visiting that social distancing and hygiene practices should be maintained. This is particularly important for those living – or having visitors from - hotspot areas,” Ms Collin said.

Ongoing Government advice includes to:

• Keep your distance.
• Keep washing your hands.
• Keep listening to the advice.

If you have any concerns, call the Coronavirus hotline 1800 675 398 (24 hours).

The Fight Parkinson’s health information team is also available to answer your Parkinson’s-related questions. Call them on 1800 644 189.

COVID-19 Update: 13 May 2020

Families and friends to reunite as social restrictions ease

Fight Parkinson’s has welcomed the lifting of some restrictions allowing family and friends to visit, but has reminded people to remain vigilant and maintain social distancing and hygiene controls to continue to prevent the spread of COVID-19.

Effective from 11.59pm on Tuesday 12 May, Victorians are able to visit family and friends in small numbers – up to five in our homes and up to 10 in public open places.

“This is good news,” said Fight Parkinson’s CEO Emma Collin.

“The ability to re-connect, face-to-face with family and friends, will relieve the impact of isolation and enable many in our Parkinson’s community to once again reunite with important support networks,” she said.

However, just as the Victorian Premier Daniel Andrews said it was important to remain vigilant, this approach is also supported by Fight Parkinson’s.

“While we still have the virus in our community, it’s important to be aware that if a person with Parkinson’s contracts COVID-19, they are at risk of experiencing more severe symptoms. This is even more so for people with Atypical Parkinson’s,” she said.

Fight Parkinson’s encourages people to re-connect with family and close friends, but recommends against hugging loved ones at this stage. Social distancing and established hygiene practices should be maintained.

As the recent situation with a Melbourne meatworks showed, clusters can grow quickly if not contained.

“We remain committed to reducing the risk of exposure to the virus in order to protect the most vulnerable members of our community,” Emma said.

“As such, we have decided to continue to postpone all face-to-face activities until at least the end of June and have strongly advised all Peer Support Group leaders to also refrain from re-commencing face-to-face meetings until they can be deemed safe to do so.

“We are working with PSG leaders and participants to ensure these meetings can run safely in the future. We are not there yet but will continue to work with the State Government and our community to this aim.”

Unable to undertake scheduled visits around Victoria since mid-March, the Fight Parkinson’s team has instead been conducting an outreach program to Life Members, in addition to the established inbound health information service.

Almost 300 calls have been made to these life members to check in on their well-being; a friendly and re-assuring voice at the end of the phone to see how they are going and remind them of the support that is available.

“From the outset, our main priority has been to remain connected to our community; to adapt our offering to ensure people living with Parkinson’s, as well as their families and carers, can continue to tap into the vital support, information and care we provide,” Emma said.

If you need to talk to someone about COVID-19 and your Parkinson’s, call our Health Information phoneline on 1800 644 189.

Aged Care visitor Code released

The Industry Code for Visiting Residential Aged Care Homes during COVID-19 has been released, creating a nationally consistent approach that ensures residents can receive visitors while minimising the risk of spreading COVID-19.

The Code was finalised after public consultation with both consumers and aged care providers. It cements a human rights approach to care that both protects and respects aged care residents and their visitors. The Code acknowledges the work that providers and staff are doing to keep people safe during the pandemic.

Read more.

COVID-19 Update: 8 May 2020

Hear it from the doctors

As COVID-19 continues to impact the world, there are a growing number of resources being developed to help people navigate their way through the restrictions and resulting anxiety.

This includes information specifically for people with Parkinson’s and Atypical Parkinson’s. The following two videos feature some of the leading medical practitioners in Parkinson’s and progressive supranuclear palsy (PSP)

Lawrence I. Golbe, MD, is a neurologist in New Jersey, and one of the world’s leading clinical experts in progressive supranuclear palsy (PSP) and related neurodegenerative conditions. In this Cure PSP Ask the Doctor video, he talks about PSP and COVID-19. Watch the video.

Dr. Soania Mathur is a Canadian-based physician, patient and Parkinson’s Advocate. She asked three prominent physicians who caring for the Parkinson's community, Dr. Michael Okun, Dr. Bas Bloem and Dr. Daniel Weintraub , for tips and words of advice to help people navigate this challenging time. Watch the video.

Exercise at home

Since the COVID-19 social restrictions came into place, it has become evident that one of the major concerns for many people with Parkinson’s is the impact on ability to engage in exercise.

Physical activity is increasingly shown to positively impact people with Parkinson’s, not only physically but it can improve mental health. Unfortunately, the coronavirus restrictions put a halt to group activities and classes.

It’s important to try to maintain exercise routines and physical activity as much as possible. People with Parkinson’s, particularly those with more advanced symptoms, need to be cautious when choosing to do exercise. Read more about exercise options to try at home.

COVID-19 Update: 5 May 2020

A Walk in the Park to go online

Fight Parkinson’s has made the difficult decision to change the direction of A Walk in the Park for 2020. The Melbourne walk was scheduled for Sunday 23 August.

All indications are that social distancing is going to be with us for a while yet, particularly for large gatherings. So, for the safety of our community and everyone involved, we are unable to deliver the much anticipated walk this year.

Fight Parkinson’s is aware many people hold A Walk in the Park close to their heart, as a special day that provides people living with Parkinson’s the chance to connect with each other, and their family and friends, to celebrate and commemorate.

We also know that during these challenging times, it’s more important now than ever to unite our community. So we have committed to provide a new, virtual online community event for the Parkinson's Community in 2020.

Full details will be provided over coming weeks. Keep an eye on our website and join our Facebook page for further announcements and updates.

Outreach calls 

Not everyone in our community has the ability to connect online. This can leave them more isolated during these challenging times of stage three restrictions and ongoing social distancing measures.
 
The Fight Parkinson’s team has reached out to hundreds of our members via telephone to check on their welfare and to offer a hand of support.
 
Four key themes have become clear from these conversations: the impact of anxiety, fear around ongoing access to medications, limited ability to stay mobile and the importance of support networks including family, GPs, Neurologists and Parkinson's Victoria.
 
As we continue to make these outreach calls, we are also working to provide information and services to alleviate these concerns

Aged care visitor restrictions

A draft Visitor Access Code to ensure a nationally consistent visitation policy to residential aged care homes during the COVID-19 crisis was released on 1 May 2020 by peak aged care and consumer advocacy organisations for public consultation.

The Code aims to apply a compassionate and consistent visitor policy that continues to minimise the risk of COVID-19 while providing innovative on-site visiting solutions to maintain the mental health of residents.

Consultation is open until 3pm Thursday 7 May and it is envisaged the code will be finalised by Monday 11 May 2020.

Read more about the draft code and how to comment on it.

A webinar on the draft code will be held on Wednesday 6 May for aged care residents, families and friends.

The draft code came after the Prime Minister last month called on aged care providers not to impose harsher visitor rules than those recommended by health experts, saying it was not “acceptable, fair or compassionate” for any residential aged care facility to ban visits from carers and friends.

This clear advice was welcomed by Fight Parkinson’s, which has experienced calls to its Health Information phone service indicating that some facilities had gone into ‘lockdown’ and woul not allow visitors.

“We appreciate the need to balance service delivery and safety with the needs of residents,” said Fight Parkinson’s CEO Emma Collin.

“However, separation can be extremely distressing to all parties, particularly for the person in care who may not fully understand why their loved one is no longer visiting them.

“This distress can impact condition and worsen symptoms. We also know some carers schedule their visits help ensure Parkinson’s patients receive their medication on time, which is crucial to symptom management.”

Anyone experiencing issues with aged care visitor access can contact our Health Team on 1800 644 189 for advice and assistance.

COVID-19 and Atypical Parkinson’s

People living with Atypical Parkinson’s can be particularly vulnerable to COVID-19 symptoms, particularly those with more advanced symptoms affecting swallowing and coughing up secretions.

We have updated information our website with information and support services available to assist people with Atypical Parkinson’s and their carers at this time.

Prof. Bas Bloem writes on COVID-19

Dutch neurologist, Prof. Bas Bloem, who spoke at Fight Parkinson’s Smart Health in November, has co-authored an article looking into the impacts and opportunities of COVID-19 to people with Parkinson’s.

The article, The Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic on Parkinson’s Disease: Hidden Sorrows and Emerging Opportunities, says an increased risk of chronic psychological stress, which can worsen motor symptoms, while reducing the efficacy of dopaminergic medication, is one of the ‘hidden sorrows’.

They noted another hidden consequence being a marked reduction in physical activities, which may contribute further to psychological stress – with the plus side being the emergence of web-based exercise initiatives.

However, Prof Bloem and co-author Dr Rick Helmich wrote the current crisis also offered research opportunities, including to better understand the factors that contribute to resilience in Parkinson’s patients.

COVID-19 Update: 30 March 2020

The latest changes announced by the Prime Minister Scott Morrison last night (Sunday) relevant to people living with Parkinson’s.

Telehealth

Have you got an upcoming GP or specialist medical appointment?

Effective from 8am today (30 March), the Australian Government has expanded Medicare-subsidised telehealth services to provide continued access to essential primary health services during the COVID-19 pandemic. This means you will be able to access bulk-billed telehealth consultations and not have to pay any out-of-pocket costs.

Among the services included are GP services and some consultation services provided by other medical specialists, nurse practitioners, mental health treatment, chronic disease management, services to patients in aged care facilities and after-hours consultations.  

Health Minister Greg Hunt said expanding consultation services available by telehealth would limit unnecessary exposure of patients and health professionals to COVID-19, wherever treatment can be safely delivered by phone or videoconferencing.  

At the same time, the Government has also taken measures to ensure medical practices stay open to provide face-to-face services essential for patients with conditions that can’t be treated through telehealth.  

“One of things we don’t want to see during this pandemic is a reduction in services and support for people living with chronic health conditions such as Parkinson’s,” said Fight Parkinson’s CEO Emma Collin.

“We welcome the move and new measures put in place to make sure people living with Parkinson’s can continue to access the care and medical services they need during this challenging time,” she said.

Contact your doctor or medical specialist to discuss the most appropriate course of care for you in light of this latest update.

Stay at home advice

People aged over 70 years and those with a chronic illness aged over 60 years, have now been “strongly advised” to self-isolate at home as much as practical to limit their interaction with others for their own protection.

This does not mean you cannot go outside. Instead the advice is to go outside accompanied by a support person for the purposes of getting some fresh air or for recreation, but to limit contact with others as much as possible.

If you do not have a support person who is able to help you with grocery shopping, you should contact your local MP, council or community organisation, such as Neighbourhood House, many of which are coordinating volunteer shoppers.

Check with your local pharmacy regarding medication deliveries.

If you need to talk to someone about how the changes are impacting you, or need information or advice on where to get assistance, remember, we are here to help.

Call our phone information line on 1800 644 189. Our phone is manned 9am – 5pm Monday to Friday. Leave a message after hours and we will return your call.

COVID-19 Update: 24 March 2020

Fight Parkinson’s office changes

In line with Government advice to close non-essential services to reduce the risk of coronavirus spread, Fight Parkinson’s has temporarily closed its Surrey Hills office, effective today Tuesday 24 March 2020. 

However, we remain open for business, with staff working remotely to ensure continuation of service provision. 

“The safety and well-being of our community and team is priority. While we provide an essential service, it’s one that can be effectively provided via our phone and online service,” said Fight Parkinson’s CEO Emma Collin. 

She said people could be assured that the advice and information Fight Parkinson’s is known for is still available over the phone and online. 

“The Fight Parkinson’s team have been able to boost our phone and online service for people living with Parkinson’s and their families at this challenging time,” Emma said. 

The health team consists of experienced allied health professionals, including Parkinson’s nurses, speech pathologist and occupational therapist. They can also provide contact details of other medical and health professionals experienced in Parkinson’s if required.  

“Even though you have to change the way you live your life at the moment, what hasn’t changed is our commitment to support Victorians living with Parkinson’s to make sure they have all the information they need, even though the coronavirus pandemic,” Emma said. 

People with Parkinson’s are particularly vulnerable to experiencing more severe symptoms if they are struck down with coronavirus, so should stay home as much as possible and follow Government guidelines  in relation to social distancing when in contact with other people. 

Fight Parkinson’s is in contact with the State Government and monitoring the latest Government advice daily. Updates will be posted on our website and Facebook page.

Our phone information service is available from 9am – 5pm, Monday to Friday 9am – 5pm. Messages can be left after hours and will be returned the next business day. You can also email us, info@fightparkinsons.org.au 

COVID-19 Update: 16 March 2020

InSearch lectures cancelled

Fight Parkinson’s has made the difficult decision to cancel and postpone all community events and seminars until mid-May, including the 2020 InSearch research lectures in Echuca, Melbourne and Horsham.

“Over the past few days, there has been a significant shift in concern over the coronavirus (COVID-19) in Victoria, culminating with the Victorian Premier Daniel Andrews declaring a state of emergency this morning” said Fight Parkinson’s CEO Emma Collin.

“It is incumbent on us to make sure the risk of exposure is reduced for those who are vulnerable; who have been shown to have the most severe response to the virus and that will include some members of the Parkinson’s community,” Emma said.

Parkinson’s Recently Diagnosed Seminars in Ballarat, Melbourne and Swan Hill have also been cancelled.

Next steps

Fight Parkinson’s is directly contacting everyone already booked and impacted by the decision, and is arranging refunds for those who purchased tickets.

Given the number of people impacted, this could take several days. We ask that people be patient.

We are also working closely with Parkinson’s Peer Support Group leaders around the cancellation of PSG meetings and gatherings between now and 15 May 2020.

“The decision to cancel PSG meetings and associated activities has been difficult given people may feel more isolated than ever, but given the potential impact of COVID-19 on people living with Parkinson’s, this is a cautious but needed response,” Emma said.

“I want to assure our community that Fight Parkinson’s remains by your side to provide timely and effective ongoing advice, with increased service and support to be offered over the phone during this challenging time,” she said.

The Fight Parkinson’s health information line is manned on weekdays from 9am – 5pm. Messages can be left after hours.

Fight Parkinson’s will re-assess the situation next month, after which we will provide a further update for events scheduled post-15 May 2020.

INSIGHT 2020 is going ahead

INSIGHT into Parkinson’s is a free online conference to empower people with Parkinson’s. This event is not attended in person but is watched on a personal computer from the comfort and safety of the home.

Fight Parkinson’s has sponsored INSIGHT 2020 and is proud to help make this online global conference, with 60 speakers scheduled to present between 1-3 April, accessible and free for people living with Parkinson’s.

During this period, when Fight Parkinson’s is unable to host face-to-face information and education events, INSIGHT 2020 provides access to quality information to increase understanding of Parkinson’s and build people’s capacity to better self-manage their condition.

As part of our Fight Parkinson’s community, a 30% discount on the upgrade package is also available. Just enter the discount code - InsightPV20.

Visit the INSIGHT website for information on speakers and how to register.

Fight Parkinson’s thanks everyone for their understanding and urges anyone with concerns or questions to call us on 1800 644 189 or via email, info@fightparkinsons.org.au

COVID-19 Update: 10 March 2020

The health, safety and well-being of our community is our priority.

A person living with Parkinson’s has no increased risk of contracting COVID-19. However, this disease has been shown to pose a greater risk of severity to those aged over 60 years, with an underlying health condition.

For this reason, we recommend you follow the current Government advice on sensible precautions around hygiene and travel restrictions.

Questions?

If you have any queries around COVID-19 and your Parkinson’s, call our Health Team on 1800 644 189.

For medical advice, contact your GP.

We will regularly update this message as the situation progresses.

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