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  ## Breadcrumb

- [Home](/)
- [Living with Parkinson's](/living-with-parkinsons)
- [Management & Lifestyle](/living-with-parkinsons/management)
 
 #  COVID-19 

 

   

  ## 💡 Quick Summary 

 - Seniors and people with PD are more vulnerable to COVID-19 — vaccination and masks offer protection.

- Vaccines are safe for PD; side effects may temporarily worsen symptoms; boosters are recommended.

- PD does not increase infection risk but can make recovery harder; follow precautions and stay up to date on vaccines.

 

   ![Face mask on a desk near laptop and hand sanitizer](/sites/default/files/styles/no_sizing/public/images/covid19.jpg?itok=vUoeZ4Xr)  Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is a respiratory illness that can spread from person to person. Seniors are the most vulnerable. Since many people with Parkinson’s disease (PD) are above age 60, the Parkinson’s Foundation is here to help you learn more about how COVID-19 affects people with Parkinson's and urges you to get vaccinated to stay safe.

To reduce the risk of being infected with COVID-19 and its variants, and possibly spreading it to others, the CDC recommends wearing a mask indoors in public if you are in an area of substantial or high transmission. Fully vaccinated people who have been in contact with someone suspected or confirmed with COVID-19 should be tested three to five days after exposure.

## About the Coronavirus (COVID-19)

Coronaviruses are a family of viruses that are like the common cold, severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS), and Middle East respiratory syndrome (MERS). In 2019, a new virus called COVID-19 formed and spread from Wuhan, China to other countries, including the U.S.

Signs and symptoms of infection with COVID-19 may appear two to 14 days after exposure and can include fever, cough, shortness of breath or difficulty breathing. There is currently no cure, however several FDA-approved vaccines provide protection from severe illness or hospitalization if you are exposed to the virus.

[**Variants**](https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/variants/variant.html) of the virus, such as the highly contagious Omicron variant, continue to spread globally and within the U.S. They remain highly transmissible and can still be spread to those who are vaccinated. The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) is tracking these variants. [**Visit the CDC COVID-19 webpage here.**](https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/your-health/need-to-know.html)

## COVID Vaccine

In the U.S., Pfizer/BioNTech, Moderna and Johnson & Johnson’s Janssen vaccines have been widely distributed and provide protection in the event of COVID-19 exposure. Data shows that these vaccines are safe and beneficial to those with Parkinson’s.

The use of the Johnson & Johnson’s vaccine was temporarily paused; however as of April 23, 2021, the FDA recommended its use resume in the U.S. According to the CDC, women younger than 50 years old should be aware of the rare risk of blood clots and risk of syndromes resulting from low blood platelet counts (thrombocytopenia syndrome) after vaccination. Visit the [**CDC webpage**](https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/vaccines/different-vaccines/janssen.html) to learn more about the Johnson & Johnson vaccine.

Currently, we believe that these vaccines do not cause long-term changes in PD symptoms. People with PD may experience the standard short-term side effects of the vaccine, including headache, fever, chills, nausea and muscle or joint pain. These side effects can temporarily worsen the pre-existing Parkinson’s symptoms. The Pfizer/BioNTech and Moderna vaccines require two shots (taken 21 or 28 days apart). Johnson & Johnson is one shot.

[Find a COVID-19 Vaccine Near You](https://www.vaccines.gov/ "www.vaccines.gov")

 - ###   COVID Vaccine Booster Shot   
    
    Vaccines, and the antibodies they deliver to your immune system, become less effective over time. Regardless of the type of COVID-19 variant, getting a booster shot can help continue protecting you against serious illness caused by the virus. It is recommended that all people with Parkinson’s receive a booster shot.
    
    You may experience side effects after getting a booster shot, even if you did not experience side effects from your previous vaccine series. These symptoms are normal signs that your immune system is working. If you are experiencing symptoms — including fatigue, headache, or others —they are normal, but be sure to hydrate and rest until symptoms subside. Remember that people with Parkinson’s are prone to falls, which can be more likely if you are experiencing fatigue or other symptoms. If at all possible, surround yourself with extra support after your booster shot to help reduce your risk of falling, should side effects occur.
    
    The CDC recommends getting a booster five months after your second vaccine shot. Talk to your doctor about when you should receive the booster. For more information, visit the CDC article, [COVID-19 Vaccine Booster Shots](https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/vaccines/booster-shot.html).
    
    Vaccinated people can still contract the virus. If you believe you have COVID-19, and your symptoms worsen, contact your doctor and get tested.
- ###   Life After Vaccination   
    
    According to the CDC, “two weeks after receiving your second shot you are considered **fully vaccinated**." If you live in an area with high transmission rates, wear mask in public indoor settings. You should also wear a mask in a medical setting, when traveling or using public transit.
    
    Upon receiving the vaccination, you will be given a Vaccine ID Card that lists the brand of vaccine you received and immunization dates. Take a photo of your card and store it in a safe place. Do not purchase a vaccination card or passport online as these are most likely fraudulent products.
    
    Vaccinated people can still contract the virus. If you believe you have COVID-19, and your symptoms worsen, contact your doctor and get tested.
    
    [Learn more](https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/vaccines/fully-vaccinated.html "CDC Fully Vaccinated")
 
   ![Video with Dr. Okun about getting the COVID-19 vaccine if you have Parkinson's](/sites/default/files/styles/820x460/public/images/covid-19-vaccine-video.png?h=8a9cf274&itok=k2t9Xz1m)  

 

 

 

 

  ## Paxlovid and Parkinson’s

According to the CDC, “Paxlovid (nirmatrelvir tablets; ritonavir tablets) is a prescription oral antiviral drug that reduces the risk of hospitalization and death for patients with mild-to-moderate COVID-19 who are at risk of disease progression and severe illness.”

Due to the potential [drug interactions](https://nam11.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Furldefense.proofpoint.com%2Fv2%2Furl%3Fu%3Dhttps-3A__www.covid19treatmentguidelines.nih.gov_therapies_antiviral-2Dtherapy_ritonavir-2Dboosted-2Dnirmatrelvir-2D-2Dpaxlovid-2D_paxlovid-2Ddrug-2Ddrug-2Dinteractions_%26d%3DDwMFAg%26c%3DsJ6xIWYx-zLMB3EPkvcnVg%26r%3D0LTvwGR1-xnC5U4cmBEtbHHUtiyojxoXV-mG8kPHz1s%26m%3DZ3N2_kRriMWTdBBIVAWNhwS7QE9GbQm_94r4vGAeXnVi99llvH-0ZQUx5AdZKRuL%26s%3DEXtNxlGoAItkufONni2E03kC_MJLl9ElU_n7w_A4ANU%26e%3D&data=05%7C01%7Ckpomes%40parkinson.org%7Cfaf42b50ba774f15cb1408da65074e13%7Ce09aadc2b4234a84b212e4243ca42c8e%7C0%7C0%7C637933379316090496%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000%7C%7C%7C&sdata=tHa9BDizwqr9h%2F73vghNTbIQVMCZ9V3Vpk9C2GbUix8%3D&reserved=0) between Paxlovid and other prescription drugs, it is advised anyone seeking Paxlovid as a COVID-19 treatment should **consult their general practitioner**, who should review all your current medications before prescribing Paxlovid. Those on certain medications — such as blood thinners and drugs to control abnormal rhythms of the heart — may be particularly susceptible to Paxlovid side effects. Ask your **general practitioner** to check the University of Liverpool [Interaction Checker website](https://www.covid19-druginteractions.org/) for potential side effects with your current medications.

As of July 6, 2022, the U.S. FDA authorized pharmacists to prescribe Paxlovid. Be sure to discuss all medications you take with the healthcare professional prescribing Paxlovid.

## Seniors and COVID-19

If not fully vaccinated, seniors are most at risk to develop COVID-19 and its symptoms, which can increase the already elevated risk of getting pneumonia. Seniors should regularly plan to receive the pneumonia and flu vaccines in accordance with their health team.

## COVID-19 and People with Parkinson’s

Living with Parkinson’s does not put you at a higher risk of contracting COVID-19, but it does make it harder for you to recover if you contract it. Also, we know that **without the vaccine**, if you are hospitalized and you have Parkinson’s disease, there is an elevated risk of complications and potentially death.

 - ###   Everyday Precautions   
    
    Even if fully vaccinated, you can contract COVID-19. Parkinson’s and care partners should protect themselves and follow these everyday precautions to limit potential COVID-19 exposure:
    
    
    - **Wear a mask** in public indoor settings of substantial or high transmission and during medical visits.
    - **Wash your hands.** Wash them often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds at each washing.
    - **Carry hand sanitizer.** When in public spaces use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol.
    - **Know the symptoms.** Primary symptoms include mild to severe respiratory illness with fever, cough and/or shortness of breath.
    - **Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth with unwashed hands.**
    - **Wear a cloth face covering or surgical mask in medical settings, using public transporting and when traveling.** Read the CDC’s [mask guidance](https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/prevent-getting-sick/diy-cloth-face-coverings.html).
    - **When traveling, wear a face mask.** Be sure to look up testing protocols for your destination. Some destinations require negative test results.
    - **After traveling, watch out for COVID-19 symptoms.** If you have been around someone who is sick on your travels, or think you might have COVID-19, get tested and stay home.
- ###   PD Preparedness   
    
    While rare, it is possible to contract COVID-19 and become hospitalized after being fully vaccinated. People with Parkinson’s can be prepared for hospitalization with these tips:
    
    
    - **Check all your medications.** Take an inventory of all medications and reorder any that are running low.
    - **Write your medication list down.** Write down or print a list of all your medications (not just PD medications). Include medication name, strength, times taken and dosages. This customizable [medication schedule](/sites/default/files/documents/medication-form-fillable-2025.pdf "medication-form-fillable-2025.pdf") can help.
    - **Make a list of your doctors.** Make a list of your doctors and their contact information and take it with you in the event of a hospitalization.
    - **Stock your** [**Aware in Care kit**](/resources-support/hospital-safety-guide "Hospital Safety Guide") in the event you need to educate a health care professional about your PD needs. Order one [**here**](https://secure3.convio.net/prkorg/site/Ecommerce/234465553?VIEW_PRODUCT=true&product_id=1361&store_id=4003).
    - **Have your** [**Medical Alert Card** ](/sites/default/files/documents/Medical-Alert-Card-2025.pdf "Medical-Alert-Card-2025.pdf")**handy.** Always keep it with you. Print one [here](/sites/default/files/documents/Medical-Alert-Card-2025.pdf "Medical-Alert-Card-2025.pdf").
    - **PD Hospitalization and Coronavirus Preparedness Fact Sheet:** [**Download this document**](/sites/default/files/documents/hospitalization-during-covid-19-letter_0.pdf "hospitalization-during-covid-19-letter_0.pdf") that has crucial information for healthcare professionals in the case you are hospitalized during the COVID-19 outbreak.
    - **Parkinson's Disease Care Partner Guide:** [**Download this document**](/sites/default/files/documents/care-partner-guide-senior-living-facility.pdf "care-partner-guide-senior-living-facility.pdf") that provides answers to questions for people who have loved ones in a senior living facility during the COVID-19 crisis.
 
 The Parkinson's Foundation will continue to monitor and report on COVID-19.

## Join Us Online

**[Check out our upcoming online events](/resources-support/online-education/pdhealth#upcoming)  
[Watch our PD Health @ Home events](/resources-support/online-education/pdhealth "PD Health @ Home")**

Join [PD Conversations](https://www.pdconversations.org/s/), an online network of support where you can ask your Parkinson’s questions and connect with others living with and impacted by Parkinson’s.

 ###  Parkinson's Foundation Helpline 

Contact our Helpline at 1-800-4PD-INFO (1-800-473-4636) or Helpline@Parkinson.org for answers to your Parkinson’s questions. Helpline specialists can assist you in English or Spanish, Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. ET.

 [LEARN MORE](/resources-support/helpline) 

 

 

 *Page reviewed by Dr. Tracy Tholanikunnel, Assistant Professor of Movement Disorders at the University of Florida, a Parkinson’s Foundation Center of Excellence.*

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 ###  Order a Parkinson’s Hospital Safety Guide 

 The Hospital Safety Guide is a resource for people with Parkinson's and their care partners filled with useful tools and information to prepare for and navigate a hospital stay.

 [ORDER NOW](/resources-support/pd-library/order-publications) 

 [LEARN MORE](/resources-support/hospital-safety-guide) 

 

 

 

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