LUPUS UK CEO Blog - Relaxing of COVID-19 restrictions across the UK

[Paul_Howard]

Hi everyone,

It has been a while since I last wrote a post for my blog and I felt that the relaxing of COVID-19 restrictions across the UK this week was a good time to do a write a post.

You can read it now at lupusuk.org.uk/ceo-blog-jan22/

[Kevin53]

Many thanks Paul for the update. Best wishes Kevin

[Cathyan]

Thanks Paul, that was a helpful read.

[murtoz]

Thanks Paul, it would be helpful to explain the differences in procedures in the devolved nations, particularly for accessing the antivirals. Here in Scotland they don't just contact you to let you know so you need to be aware and ring the relevant health board if you test positive. You don't get a free PCR test sent out, but equally a PCR test isn't always required, they can decide to go ahead with just a positive lft.

[Paul_Howard Partner LUPUS UK in reply to murtoz]

Hi murtoz . I have tried to cover the regional differences towards the bottom of our article at lupusuk.org.uk/covid-19-tre...

Does it look right to you, or do I need to amend it?

[murtoz in reply to Paul_Howard]

Perfect, thank you!

[Treetop33]

Thank you for this. I think one of the problems with making minor mitigations like face coverings optional is that it makes us stand out more. That, along with all the rhetoric around Covid only really affecting those with underlying health conditions (the latest misinformation campaign being circulated even by politicians) and you have a pretty toxic atmosphere for us. I'd love to see more of our faces in the media as people, not as walking excuses as to why mitigations are pointless and our lives expendable.

It's evident governments, having failed to control the virus, are now giving up. I'd love to believe it was becoming endemic but we aren't there yet. It leaves us in a very difficult position. I want my life back. I don't believe I would die now. But my first bout of Covid left me with long Covid symptoms to add on top of my lupus, and I don't wish to repeat it. I'd also love to see more guidance from clinicians (as we've not had antibody tests as standard, unless we pay for them) as to our actual risk and what we can and shouldn't do (because it's not a matter of personal choice - that puts it all back on us).

[Poshcards]

Thanks Paul for this, for your information, I have now been in touch with my local MP, who is contacting my GP x