COVID 19 and Epilepsy

What is COVID-19?

The novel coronavirus is a virus to which humans have not had previous exposure. It spreads just like the flu by droplets in the air when a person infected with the virus coughs, sneezes, or talks. The main symptoms of COVID-19 are cough, fever, pain and shortness of breath although some children may be asymptomatic – meaning they do not have any symptoms. Most people who are infected with COVID-19 will only have mild to moderate symptoms, but some may need to see a doctor or be admitted to a hospital.

What are the dos and don’ts?

• Do wash your hands with soap and water for 20 seconds (or use hand sanitizer with at least 60 percent alcohol to clean hands).
• Do wear a face mask when in public (for children 2 years and older).
• Do stay 6 feet away from others who do not live in your household.
• Do avoid crowds and large gatherings.
• Do stay home if you’re feeling sick.
• Do call your doctor if you are exposed or feeling ill.

Are people with epilepsy at higher risk of developing COVID-19?

Most children with epilepsy, who have no other health problems, are not at an increased risk for contracting COVID-19 and having epilepsy does not impact the severity of COVID-19 symptoms.

Should children with seizures triggered by fever avoid getting the COVID vaccine?

Elevated temperature (fever) is a common side effect after getting any vaccine. It has also been reported as a side effect of the COVID-19 vaccine due to a reaction by the immune system.

The benefits of getting the COVID-19 vaccine outweigh the risk of getting infected with COVID-19.

If you or your loved one have seizures triggered by fever, please talk to your healthcare provider about:

• The specific benefits and risks of the COVID-19 vaccine.
• Recommendations about where you or your loved one should receive the vaccine, such as location where medical staff are available.
• A seizure action plan that includes consideration of rescue therapies.

When will the vaccine be available for my child?

The three available COVID-19 vaccines are for people 12 years and up (Pfizer) and 18 years and up (Moderna and Johnson & Johnson). The vaccine is not currently available for children under 12. However, there are research studies underway that focus on the effects of the vaccine on younger children.

Can mRNA vaccines give someone COVID-19?

No, mRNA vaccines cannot give someone COVID-19 since they do not contain the live virus that causes COVID-19. mRNA vaccines do not affect or interact with our DNA in any way. It never enters the nucleus of the cell where our DNA is kept. The cell breaks down and gets rid of the mRNA soon after it is finished using the “code.”