UK National lockdown - COVID-19 update

Both England and Scotland have entered national lockdowns due to the rise in COVID-19 throughout the UK. Similar restrictions are already in place in Wales and Northern Ireland.

During the lockdowns, people who are clinically extremely vulnerable – including people with lymphoma – are advised to take extra precautions to protect themselves. In England, Wales and Scotland, you are advised to shield. In Northern Ireland, you are advised to take extra care to follow the national guidance. In all four nations, people who are clinically extremely vulnerable who cannot work from home are advised not to go to work. If you are clinically extremely vulnerable, you should receive a letter with detailed guidance and information about any support available. 

You can read the latest guidance on COVID-19 specifically for people affected by lymphoma on our website, including latest vaccine information. The government recommends that people who are at higher risks of becoming seriously ill due to COVID-19 should have the vaccine when it is offered to them, and current predictions are that those who are clinically extremely vulnerable should have been invited to receive the vaccine by mid-February. The government advises that both vaccines are suitable for all priority groups.

If you've already had your first dose of vaccine, your second dose might be delayed by a few weeks. The first dose of vaccine generally provides significant protection within 2 to 3 weeks. Delaying your second dose means that more people can have their first dose. This will protect as many people as possible as quickly as possible. You will still get your second dose within 12 weeks of your first dose.

It is important that you continue to access medical care if you need it. If you are worried about any aspect of your lymphoma or signs of infection, please contact your GP surgery or your clinical team. It is important that you don’t ignore symptoms that could be serious. 

We understand that is a difficult time. If you’d like to talk, contact our Helpline Services on freephone 0808 808 5555 from 10am to 3pm, Monday to Friday, or via Live Chat through our website. You can also email: information@lymphoma-action.org.uk 

5 January 2021