May is National Stroke Awareness Month (NSAM), originating in the US, the idea behind this awareness month is to educate the general public about strokes, ensure that they are aware of the warning signs for strokes and that they have a good knowledge surrounding the subject in general. 

At this point in time, the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic is the news that everybody is talking about and this ties in specifically to stroke awareness. Many news outlets are reporting that some young people who have received the AstraZeneca vaccine have since suffered strokes – news which will no doubt be alarming to others who have received this vaccination, particularly those who have had a stroke previously. 

However, the Stroke Association have provided information on their website to reassure stroke survivors about the safety of the vaccinations. They said: “Like all vaccines, all three Covid-19 vaccines have gone through rigorous and extensive safety checks. The vaccines have been tested on thousands of people through different phases of clinical trials and the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) has confirmed that they have passed strict tests for safety, quality and effectiveness. No safety checks or protocols have been missed, despite the speed which the vaccines have been approved.” 

They highlighted that stroke survivors are at a greater risk from COVID-19 than other people and that the benefits of getting the vaccination far outweigh any risks. Stroke Association are urging everyone to get the vaccination as soon as it becomes available to them. At this point in time, most people who have had a stroke will have had the opportunity to be vaccinated. Stroke Association hopes to reassure people who have had the jab and to encourage those who have not yet booked a vaccination to finally do so. 

It’s important that this information be communicated to any stroke survivors so that they can be fully informed about the vaccine and what it means for their health. We recommend the information that the Stroke Association has provided as an invaluable resource on the subject. At Neuro Convention, we’re keen to ensure the everyone is equipped with factual and accurate information. Join us on the 15th and 16th of September at the NEC, Birmingham for a chance to hear from neurology thought-leaders and gain valuable insights from their wealth of knowledge. Register now!