Multiple Sclerosis & COVID-19

Current evidence shows that simply having MS does not make you more likely than the general population to develop COVID-19, become severely ill or die from the infection. However, certain factors have been shown to increase the risk of a severe case of COVID-19:

• Progressive MS
• Older age
• Male sex
• Black race
• Using a mobility device or a wheelchair
• Obesity (body mass index of 30 or higher)
• Other chronic health conditions, like diabetes or heart disease, in addition to MS
• Taking steroid medications
• Taking certain disease modifying therapies called anti-CD20 monoclonal antibodies (Ocrevus and Rituxan and biosimilars)

Relapses are always a concern with MS and especially during COVID. Seek medical advice if you experience changes in your health that may suggest a relapse or another underlying issue, such as an infection. You may be able to manage your symptoms at home via telephone or video consultations.

During this time, use steroids only after careful consideration with a healthcare provider experienced in the treatment of MS and only for serious relapses. There is some evidence that receiving high-dose steroids in the month prior to contracting COVID-19 increases the risk of a more severe infection. If you receive steroid treatment for a relapse, be extra vigilant. You may want to consider self-isolating for at least a month.

At this time, there is no specific advice for women with MS who are pregnant or breastfeeding. Refer to the CDC’s general information on COVID-19 and pregnancy and breastfeeding.

There is no specific medical advice for children with MS. Follow the advice for all people with MS. The COVID-19 vaccine is now authorized for children age 5 and older. For more information, refer to the CDC’s COVID-19 recommendations for children and to our page COVID-19 Vaccines for Children and Adolescents with MS.  

Visit Pediatric MS to learn more about MS in young people.

Healthcare providers who treat people with MS can find information on prophylactics and therapeutics, a vaccine conversation tip sheet and other resources on the COVID-19 Information for Healthcare Providers page.