Updated information from BCCA and RCPCH in light of new lockdown.
The BCCA (British Congenital Cardiac Association) have updated their guidance for patients, parents, charities and support groups in light of the national lockdown for England. They can be read here.
This advice is that those in the clinically extremely vulnerable group no longer need to follow previous shielding advice. Guidance advises attending school and returning to work for this group of patients as the remainder of the population.
The Royal College of Paediatrics and Child Health have also updated their advice on shielding extremely vulnerable children and young people. They can be read here.
Governments may reintroduce shielding advice at a local or national level. If this happens, children and young people who are advised to shield because they are CEV will receive a letter from the government. This may include advice not to attend school. Parents should contact their child’s specialist or GP if their child receives a letter telling them they are clinically extremely vulnerable and they should shield that they did not expect. If they do not have a specialist then parents should discuss with their GP who should arrange their removal from the shielding list or request advice from their local paediatric centre.
CHF advises that if you still have concerns about your child and the need for shielding to contact their cardiac team for guidance.
