The coronavirus pandemic has led to new government measures being implemented in the UK, which involves avoiding gatherings and crowded places and working from home. Those with symptoms of the virus are being advised to self-isolate. As with similar respiratory illnesses, such as flu, many people are being expected to treat their symptoms themselves. But one medication which health officials are urging people with coronavirus to avoid is ibuprofen.
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The NHS states: “There is currently no strong evidence that ibuprofen can make coronavirus (COVID-19) worse.
“But until we have more information, take paracetamol to treat the symptoms of coronavirus, unless your doctor has told you paracetamol is not suitable for you.
“If you are already taking ibuprofen or another anon-steroidal anti-inflammatory on the advice of a doctor, do not stop taking it without checking first.”
The advice comes after Olivier Veran, a qualified doctor and neurologist and France’s health minister tweeted on Saturday: “The taking of anti-inflammatories could be a factor in aggravating the infection.”
He added: “In case of fever, take paracetamol. If you already taking anti-inflammatory drugs, ask your doctor’s advice.”
The story of one family’s experience of taking ibuprofen stoked further fears.
Dan Collins and Maddie Milneer-Collins revealed their daughter Amelia’s mild symptoms have worsened since taking ibuprofen at the weekend.
Posting to Facebook, Amelia’s stepdad Dan shared a photo of Amelia along with the words: “To those of you that have children please read. If your child has symptoms of coronavirus, DO NOT give them ibuprofen.”
Amelia had been unwell since Tuesday with a cough, fever and cold.
Becoming increasingly concerned with her symptoms, they called 111, who then sent out paramedics to check on her.
But as the coupe waited for paramedics to turn up, they gave their daughter an ibuprofen tablet, as they couldn’t get hold of Calpol, which contains paracetamol.
After taking the ibuprofen, Amelia’s symptoms took a turn for the worse.
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Dan explained: “Within an hour of giving it to her, she dropped dramatically.
“She was panting while trying to breathe, her heart rate was very rapid, she couldn’t keep her eyes open, couldn’t life her head up, her body was shaking, she started being sick on herself and her temperature had risen to 39.4!.
“We called back up and they sent out an emergency ambulance, once the paramedics got here they managed to bring her temp and stats down a bit, they’re still higher than normal but not dangerous high anymore.
“Now she’s back on Calpol, she’s back to just being her poorly self.”
What to do if you have coronavirus symptoms
Drinking plenty of water and taking paracetamol is advised to help with symptoms.
The NHS advises if you have symptoms, to stay at home for seven days.
It adds: “If you live with other people, they should stay at home for 14 days from the day the first person got symptoms
“If you live with someone who is 70 or over, has a long-term condition, is pregnant or has a weakened immune system, try to find somewhere else for them to stay for 14 days.
“If you have to stay at home together, try to keep away from each other as much as possible.”
You should use the NHS 111 online coronavirus service if:
- You feel you cannot cope with your symptoms at home
- Your condition gets worse
- Your symptoms do not get better after seven days
Only call NHS 111 if you can’t get online.
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