COVID-19 information
The coronavirus can affect the entire respiratory system and may lead to pneumonia, particularly in individuals with pre-existing conditions such as PSP, MSA or CBS. Understanding these risks is important for protecting health and preventing complications.
This can cause complications for people with Atypical Parkinson’s, particularly those with more advanced symptoms, which may include difficulty swallowing or coughing up secretions, which can collect in the throat causing a gurgly voice or drip into the lungs causing chest infection and sometimes pneumonia.
In addition, a person with Atypical Parkinson’s may have some difficulties coughing up the lung’s secretions, allowing the secretions to fill spaces in the lungs where air should be flowing, reducing the ability of oxygen to reach the tissues.
Keep track of all the latest Victorian updates via the Department of Health and Human Services.
COVID-19 vaccination program
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 and Atypical Parkinson’s to receive the COVID-19 vaccination.
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.
Read Fight Parkinson’s COVID-19 vaccination statement.
If you have any concerns our would like more information about COVID-19 and Atypical Parkinson’s call the Fight Parkinson’s Information Line for free and confidential advice and support on 1800 931 031.
