Just as their turn‐in‐line arrived, the state suddenly removed Nebraskans with Down syndrome and other high‐risk medical conditions from the published Phase 1B COVID-19 vaccine prioritization category.
Why is this a big deal? Because, individuals with Down syndrome, for example, are ten times more likely to die if they contract COVID‐19, due to multiple and more complex comorbidity factors.
In December 2020, the CDC officially categorized people with Down syndrome as “high risk” for COVID-19, meaning that they have a higher likelihood of having more severe symptoms and sadly death. A few studies on COVID-19 underscore the risk to be especially acute in people with Down syndrome who are forty years old or older.
Down Syndrome Association for Families of Nebraska is proud to share the valuable, free COVID-19 & Down Syndrome Resource in English and Spanish published by GLOBAL and the national consortium. The Resource focuses on new and updated information specific to testing, vaccines, mental health, ways to stay safe, and advocacy in hospital settings and for appropriate care.
We strongly recommend you read through this important resource.
We applaud the national consortium of Down syndrome organizations for creating this important resource for community. Please remember we are here for you during this difficult time and do not hesitate to call or email. In the meantime, please stay healthy and be safe!
