Covid-19 (coronavirus)

Easing of protections against Covid-19

Since Monday January 24, 2022, employees can return to the workplace on a phased basis. Systems and controls should be in place in all workplaces to manage suspected cases and/or outbreaks of Covid-19. Employers should consult and communicate with staff, and implement workplace changes and/or policies together with employees.

There is different public health advice for both the very high risk (extremely vulnerable) and high risk groups. Employers should take account of the particular need of workers in the high or very high risk category.

From 28 February 2022, it is no longer mandatory to wear a face covering on public transport, in taxis, shops, schools and other indoor public areas. While people will still be advised to wear them on public transport; they will not be mandatory. Staff in hospitality settings will no longer need to wear a face covering. You are still recommended to wear a face mask in hospitals and health settings.

You are encouraged to ‘manage risk’ for yourself and those who are more vulnerable through mask-wearing, hand hygiene, physical distancing and avoiding crowds where necessary. Infection prevention and control measures like hand sanitizer and advice to stay at home when sick will remain in school and childcare settings.

Anyone one with a confirmed case of Covid-19 must isolate for seven days. All those who are immunocompromised and have symptoms should isolate, get a PCR test and follow the public health advice on that result.  

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How can Arthritis Ireland help during Covid-19?

We understand that that this has been a time of great nervousness and anxiety for everyone. For all those living with inflammatory forms of arthritis, taking immunosuppressive medications or caring for someone in their family with an autoimmune condition there has been worry and uncertainty.

This continues as the wider world opens up.

If you have been feeling isolated, alone, scared, lacking in motivation, then you are most certainly not alone. If your joints are feeling more painful because you couldn't get out and about, or the motivation wasn't there to cook healthily every night, then we understand. 

Talk to our helpline team. Talk to your peers about the difficult emotions brought on by coping with lockdowns and health measures. 

Even as our branches begin to organise local events again and our courses and classes have their first face-to-face sessions in over two years, we appreciate that many within our community are fearful and anxious.

You are not alone, you are supported and you are understood, reach out for the support that is available to you. We've all struggled mentally and physically during the pandemic. 

Continue to stay as safe as possible and reach out for the support.

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Treatments for those at highest risk from Covid-19

A new treatment is available in Ireland for those at the highest risk of becoming seriously ill with Covid-19. There are some people living with arthritis who may be considered in this category, however most people living with arthritis will not need this medicine.

There is also a very limited supply of the medicine, and therefore those at the very highest risk will be prioritised.

A consultant/specialist will always make a decision on whether or not this treatment is required. It is reserved for those at the highest risk - for example those who have had organ transplants, those with HIV, AIDS, blood disorders, cancers, liver and kidney conditions. 

Some named treatments for rheumatic and musculo-skeletal diseases (RMDs) such as rituximab, high-dose steroids (>40mg per day for more than a week), combination therapy could put people living with arthritis into this group but, depending on individual circumstances, perhaps not at the highest priority for treatment with this medicine. 

Further detail on this treatment is available via the HSE here

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Do I need a booster dose of Covid-19 vaccination if I have arthritis? 

It is important that you are vaccinated against Covid-19 if you have a weak immune system, either immunosuppressed or immunocompromised.

Having a weak immune system puts you at higher risk of serious illness if you get Covid-19. Getting vaccinated will give you some protection against this.

Covid-19 vaccines may be less effective for you than other people. Because your immune system may not respond as well to vaccination, you could still be at risk of becoming severely ill from Covid-19. You are also at risk of Covid-19 infection lasting for longer.

If you had a weak immune system at the time of your first round of Covid-19 vaccination, you should have been offered an additional dose to give you better protection.

This means you should get an additional dose at least two months after you complete your vaccination course and then a booster dose at least three months after the additional dose.

Hospitals are identifying people who need an additional dose due to being immunocompromised. You do not need to register or contact anyone. People who need an additional dose will receive a text message with an appointment for their vaccine.

If you had Covid-19 since you were vaccinated, you need to wait for three months before getting an additional dose.

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What is high risk and very high risk for people living with arthritis during Covid-19?

There is not enough information available yet to be sure how Covid-19 affects people on medicines such as:

• rituximab
• cyclophosphamide
• alemtuzumab
• cladribine
• ocrelizumab

If you take one of these medicines, you are at very high risk of getting very ill if you get Covid-19. You should take extra care to protect yourself from the virus. 

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