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Coronavirus (COVID-19)

Coronavirus (COVID-19) is a rapidly emerging disease that has infected thousands of people 

around the world; as of March 10, the U.S counts more than 700 cases across three dozen states

and Washington, D.C. Much remains unknown about the disease and how it spreads, however 

the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) warns that older adults and anyone with 

underlying health issues face increased risk of developing more severe cases of COVID-19.

It is critical for these high-risk communities, including those living with spinal cord injuries, to 

monitor for symptoms and follow recommended preventative measures in order to reduce 

exposure.

Be Aware of Symptoms:

Symptoms of COVID-19 include:
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• Fever

• Cough

• Shortness of breath

If you experience any of these symptoms, seek medical attention immediately. Medicare Part 

B covers coronavirus testing when ordered by a doctor or health care provider, effective February 

4, 2020. For more information, visit Medicare.gov.

How to Reduce Risk of Infection:

• Wash hands frequently with warm water and soap for at least 20 seconds. A 

demonstration of effective hand-washing as recommended by the World Health 

Organization can be viewed here. If soap and water aren’t available, use an alcohol-based 

sanitizer.

• Do not touch your eyes, nose and mouth.

• Ask caregivers to wash hands as soon as they arrive at your home and before touching or 

feeding you.

• Avoid crowds and busy public spaces as much as possible; postpone all air travel and 

vacation cruises until the CDC indicates the virus has run its course.

• Try to stay at least three feet from anyone sneezing or coughing.

• If family members become sick, have them move to a separate room, if possible, while 

they recover to limit your exposure to the disease.

• Regularly clean and disinfect countertops, doorknobs and any frequently touched objects 

(including phone, keyboards and touch screens.)

How to Prepare for COVID-19 Outbreaks in Your Community

• Stock up on medications and important household items, including medical supplies, 

pantry staples and pet food, so you can limit public outings during a local outbreak. 

• Arrange for back-up care in case a primary caregiver or attendant becomes sick.

• Arrange for back-up transportation in case your local provider is affected.

Additional Resources
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ACL: What Do Older Adults and People with Disabilities Need to Know

CDC Coronavirus Factsheet

CDC Coronavirus Updates

Christopher & Dana Reeve Foundation: SCI, Flu and Coronavirus

Multiple Sclerosis Association of America: MS and Coronavirus

STAT News Breakdown of Coronavirus Risk Factors by Demographics

World Health Organization Recommendations

The information contained in this message is presented for the purpose of educating and 

informing you about paralysis and its effects. Nothing contained in this message should be 

construed nor is intended to be used for medical diagnosis or treatment. It should not be used 

in place of the advice of your physician or other qualified health care provider. Should you 

have any health care related questions, please call or see your physician or other qualified 

health care provider promptly. Always consult with your physician or other qualified health 

care provider before embarking on a new treatment, diet or fitness program. You should 

never disregard medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read in 

this message.

This project was supported, in part, by grant number 90PR3002, from the U.S. Administration 

for Community Living, Department of Health and Human Services, Washington, D.C. 20201. 

Grantees undertaking projects under government sponsorships are encouraged to express freely 

their findings and conclusions. Points of view or opinions do not, therefore, necessarily represent 

official Administration for Community Living policy.