This is an extremely uncertain time due to the spread of COVID-19. As a medical research charity, we are only too aware of the significance of the current situation. It has been a tough start to the year for many in our community with the bushfire and flood crises, and we want to share our support and provide an update on some of the actions MS Research Australia is taking in response to the present circumstances.
Keeping you informed
For people living with MS, carers, family members and friends, a dedicated page has been set up on our partner organisation MS Australia’s website; COVID-19 information for people with MS which will be regularly updated with the latest relevant information.
Keeping our staff safe
In terms of our own staff, we would like to reassure you that they are safe and well and working remotely until further notice – a step MS Research Australia took last Friday to allow our valued team members to work from home and play our part in supporting the Australian government’s advice on social distancing. Our team continue to work tirelessly to ensure that we operate as close to ‘business as usual’ as possible, and that the important work continues to provide a better future for people living with MS.
Supporting our researchers
Our researchers will continue their critical work with as little disruption wherever possible, but will remain flexible and responsive to the protocols that are being put in place by their various universities and research institutions.
Ensuring resilience for the future
While these are extremely difficult times, for all of us in Australia and our communities around the world, we must remember that this is temporary. We will get through this together. And when we do, it is of vital importance that we can continue the work underway to help us stop and reverse MS. How do we do this?
We need you now, more than ever
With face-to-face events and large group gatherings no longer being advised, there are other ways you can still make a huge difference and raise funds for MS research. The May 50K is a great example. As a virtual fitness and fundraising challenge, it can be completed anywhere in Australia and on your own, with minimal risk to others – even in the comfort of your own home or local park. It’s important that we stay fit and healthy during this time by looking after our physical and mental well-being. The May 50K is a great way to combine the two! Get active, stay connected as a community and help us keep driving the change that we all want to see, freedom from MS. Visit themay50k.org to sign up or to find out more.
At this time it is important that we remember that people living with MS still need better treatments, prevention and ultimately a cure. You can help by donating today > msra.org.au/donate
With your help we will continue the effort to prevent, treat and cure MS long after the current crises. With your ongoing support, we will be able to stop and reverse MS. Thank you.
Meanwhile, be safe, take sensible precautions and stay tuned on our social media channels for further updates.
For the latest advice, information and resources on COVID-19, please visit the following links:Â
- Multiple Sclerosis International Federation: The corona virus and MS – what you need to know
- MS Australia: COVID-19 Information for people with MS
- MS Australia: Advice for patients with MS and related disorders regarding COVID-19 outbreak
- World Health Organization: Rolling updates on coronavirus disease(COVID-19)
- Australian Department of Health:Â Coronavirus (COVID-19) health alert daily updates
- Australian Department of Health: COVID-19Â FAQs
- Smart traveller: Coronavirus (COVID-19)
