Good morning

[Harry19]

I recently read that the government across England and Wales are increasing the list of vulnerable people that need to shield . Maybe this time lupus will be considered ? Just a thought .

[bluebell99]

Hi, I am shielded and the reason given was because of lupus. My GP was very quick to inform me by text that I needed to isolate back in the middle of March.

I have had a NHS text this morning telling me I must be shielded until the 30th June!

I think I may be climbing the walls by then, I have "served" 8 weeks already, another 8 weeks feels like a prison sentence.

I am lucky to have good carer in my husband, bearing in mind he is also serving his time in isolation with me. I also have a small garden but I am missing the company of friends and family, just to see a different face!

I know it is for my benefit but I do feel a bit overwhelmed.

[Harry19 in reply to bluebell99]

Aww bless I hope the remainder of your time goes ok xx well done to your hubby 👍

[CecilyParsley]

I have had absolutely nothing from anyone. When I asked my GP receptionist she told me letters were only sent to sick people who have cancer?

[Harry19 in reply to CecilyParsley]

I have lupus working front line with the virus . Not a thing given to me either by gp or occupational health.

[CecilyParsley in reply to Harry19]

Wow Harry that is dreadful. Please take care ❤️

[DJK99 in reply to CecilyParsley]

Good grief! I think a call to the practice manager might be in order... training required alert. Seriously. I hope you are taking matters into your own hands and staying at home if you meet the criteria on here etc. Take care x

[Harry19 in reply to DJK99]

Yes using my common sense xx

[heatherevans28]

Hi,

I hope not but I keep seeing people receiving letters who do not meet the criteria so it could sadly be true.

I'm already shielding because of my levels of immunosuppression, but I think it would go against the evidence so far to say that everyone with lupus (i.e. those on no medication or no immunosuppression) should be shielding. The rheumatology association have stated that those people have low risk of complications, and many of them will already have had the disease.

I cannot honestly see whose of us shielding being allowed out for months yet, and I would not wish this on anyone unless strictly necessary. It is extremely restrictive to everyday life and I am one of the fortunate ones whose partner can shield with me. I feel for those who are isolated even within their households, as per the guidance. In all likelihood I have already had Covid-19 and was hospitalised with it (not tested), but am now well. This does not affect my shielding status.

There is an elevated risk for anyone in the vulnerable category (i.e. anyone who gets the flu jab), but I think that the level of risk has to outweigh the considerable restrictions that shielding puts on people, to be worthwhile. At present I'm not personally convinced.

Just my two cents xx

[Harry19 in reply to heatherevans28]

That’s very true x