Like many of you, back towards the end of March I received THAT letter from the NHS identifying me as someone at risk of severe illness if I catch Coronavirus. This means shielding and NOT LEAVING THE HOUSE for 12 weeks. This was because I take azathioprine which is an immune suppressant. I have recently stopped taking this medication (purely coincidence not because of my risk to Coronavirus) but it does stay in your bloodstream for 3-6 months.
I have no other comorbidity, so was slightly confused about my letter (as many people were). When I’d previously checked the specific guidelines written by IBD specialists, I only fell into the *moderate risk* category. I contacted my consultant who confirmed this, and I believe the guidelines have since been revised. You can find out more here.
That said, I have been staying home and social distancing, only going out occasionally for my hour of exercise or for essential items. Since I received the letter, I have received numerous texts, another letter and two separate phone calls (one from the NHS, one from my local council) with information and resources to help vulnerable people.
I am incredibly impressed with the level of care and help we have here in the UK. I explained when I received the calls that I was fine and did not need any assistance, but I am so grateful for the level of care, and I am sure there must be so many people out there that do need help. I have been taken off the call list now but was given a helpline number if I do happen to need help with getting medication or groceries. How amazing is that?!
What risk category do you fall in? If you’re in the UK or anywhere else in the world, have you been as overwhelmed by the level of care you are receiving from the government and public healthcare, or have you had a different experience?
** If you are unsure of your risk level, check the COVID-19 UK IBD Tool **
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