SCI-specific information — historical guidance

Archived pandemic information. Read the original publication in its historical context.

An archived infographic discussing COVID-19 and spinal cord injury.

Original resource: COVID-19 Infographic: COVID-19 & SCI. Open the source for its complete visual or narrative content.

Impaired breathing and coughing, other health conditions and close caregiver contact may increase vulnerability. Higher injuries may particularly affect respiratory muscles and the ability to clear secretions through coughing.

The historical guidance focuses on reducing exposure and planning access to essential supplies and support. The original advice includes distancing, hygiene, supplies and caregiver precautions; its early-pandemic assumptions should not be treated as current treatment guidance.

Cleaning wheelchairs, assistive devices and respiratory equipment is a central theme. The source distinguishes manual chairs, powered controls and respiratory devices, recognizing that assistance may be needed.

Caregiver precautions and backup support are emphasized to maintain essential care. The historical checklist covers illness among helpers, hand hygiene and arrangements for urgent needs.

The factsheet discusses care planning, breathing-related warning signs and telling emergency providers about SCI. It also stresses discussing the urgency of routine appointments with the treating team rather than assuming every visit can be postponed.