Health and Safety

Updated COVID Guidance from the National Scleroderma Foundation Medical and Scientific Advisory Board

As the designation of COVID as a global health emergency comes to an end, we are encouraged to see a return to many “normal” activities of daily living. However, it is important to note that the virus continues to spread and evolve. It is important for those living with scleroderma or a related condition to continue to maintain a reasonable level of caution. This includes regular handwashing, wearing a mask in crowded public spaces, and following CDC guidance for people who are moderately or severely immunocompromised. You can learn more at https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/vaccines/stay-up-to-date.html.  

The Foundation encourages appropriate vaccines and treatments to protect individuals within the scleroderma community from serious complication that can result from COVID-19. We encourage everyone to stay up to date on their COVID-19 vaccinations, and to work with their medical team to ensure appropriate care. We also recommend reviewing the current Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and American College of Rheumatology data and recommendations.

Disclaimer: The National Scleroderma Foundation in no way endorses any drugs, treatments, clinical trials or studies.  Information is provided to keep the readers informed.  Because the manifestations and severity of scleroderma vary among individuals, personalized medical management is essential.  Therefore, it is strongly recommended that all drugs and treatments be discussed with the reader’s physician for proper evaluation and treatment.