Coronavirus (COVID-19) and arthritis

Updated: February 2022

We’ll be continually reviewing this content as the COVID-19 situation evolves across the UK and guidance changes over time. Therefore, it’s important to check this page regularly for updates.

Latest updates

We know that with the announcement of the ‘plan for living with COVID-19’ which effectively ends all remaining COVID-19 restrictions in England, it can be a really anxious time.

The plan includes an end to mandatory self-isolation for anyone with a positive result, and an end to free universal testing in England on April 1, though free symptomatic tests will be provided to the oldest age groups and the most vulnerable.

Understandably this news has caused much distress to people who have been shielding throughout the pandemic because of their condition. We're here for you.

Read our response to the plan on 'living with COVID'and the coalition we've joined with other charities to demand your concerns are heard.

There are still some restrictions in place in Northern Ireland, Scotland and Wales. Please check Government websites for useful information.

If you need any help and support, you'll find more useful links and blogs below.

COVID-19 vaccines and arthritis

Read the most up-to-date answers to your questions about theCOVID-19 vaccines.

Our vaccine content now includes more information about the booster jabs and second dose of the vaccine for 12-15.

COVID-19 - risk factors

If you're being treated for an autoimmune condition it may increase your risk of getting coronavirus. Read the latest information aboutCOVID-19 and the risk factors for people with arthritisor the 'clinically extremely vulnerable'.

Please also check the guidance for where you live:

• England
• 威尔士
• Scotland
• Northern Ireland.

You should also check the numbers of COVID-19 cases in your area as this may influence what activities you do and what precautions you take.Find out how many coronavirus cases are in your area on Gov.UK website.

We hope this helps you to make decisions about what precautions you may choose to take and what situations you feel comfortable with as COVID-19 restrictions continue to change across the UK.

Looking after yourself

It's important to try to take care of your wellbeing and to look after yourself. We’ve published these articles which include advice to help support you.

• Are you worried about COVID-19 restrictions easing?
• Managing your pain at home
• Staying active with arthritis
• Let's Move

Treatments and appointments during COVID-19

Learn more aboutpreparing for surgeryduring the COVID-19 pandemic, including what to expect before, on the day and after an operation.

We are here for you

We’ll continue to stand by, support and speak up for people living with arthritis.

Call our free热线服务电话on 0800 5200 520, or emailhelpline@versusarthritis.org, talk toCOVA, our COVID-19 virtual assistant, 24/7, or connect with others on our 在线社区.

Read abouthow we are keeping our face to face events and residentials safefor everyone.