Community Forum Archive

The Epilepsy Community Forums are closed, and the information is archived. The content in this section may not be current or apply to all situations. In addition, forum questions and responses include information and content that has been generated by epilepsy community members. This content is not moderated. The information on these pages should not be substituted for medical advice from a healthcare provider. Experiences with epilepsy can vary greatly on an individual basis. Please contact your doctor or medical team if you have any questions about your situation. For more information, learn about epilepsy or visit our resources section.

Mandatory Face Masks in public spaces

Thu, 05/21/2020 - 18:40

Topic: Advocate for Epilepsy

Does anyone have concerns related to mandatory facemasks some cities and towns are requiring in public spaces and stores? My small town (25K people) has required all citizens to wear face coverings which I belive could trigger seizures. So does this constitute a breach of the Americans with Disabilities Act. My town implemented this today (5/21) and I am concerned about going out into town.

Comments

Hi. I’m a licensed clinical

Submitted by Patriotrehab on Fri, 2020-05-22 - 01:24

Hi. I’m a licensed clinical social worker and certified rehabilitation counselor as well as a person with epilepsy. I think you have a very valid point and not just for epilepsy. There are all sorts of medical conditions that face masks can make breathing more difficult and cause complications. But, that’s up to the legal experts to figure out. I recommend that you post this concern on the Share your Story section where they are asking questions about returning to doctors appointments because it will probably be mandatory at doctor’s offices too. I know it is at the VA facilities where I have to go for some of my care. I’ve had my rights and I’ve seen my clients rights violated under ADA more often than honored. I wish you the best.

EF has been exploring this

Submitted by Anonymous on Fri, 2020-05-22 - 08:57

EF has been exploring this issue with medical experts and CDC. There is no data that a face covering or mask will trigger seizures and no reports of this either. We do recommend that each person with epilepsy talk to their epilepsy provider about the use of a mask given their type of seizure, and if there is any type better than others for their situation. Another consideration is when going out in public, can you travel with a 'buddy', so if you have a seizure and need it take off, someone is there to help. Also that person can keep you safe during a seizure from getting. too close to others or grabbing at things if. you have a focal seizure and are confused or not aware of what is going on.

Hi,Thank for you posting and

Submitted by Anonymous on Fri, 2020-05-22 - 10:15

Hi,Thank for you posting and for sharing your concerns.It’s important that individuals who may be at an increase risked for seizures triggered by wearing a face covering or concerns about their specific types of seizures,are following up with their healthcare team, who can make the most appropriate individual recommendations. https://www.epilepsy.com/learn/covid-19-and-epilepsy/staying-safe-and-avoiding-risks-during-covid-19-crisis . The Epilepsy Foundation is continuing to advocate for policies that will ensure people with epilepsy can follow CDC guidelines on social distancing and have the health care and supports they need, including access to essential treatments, and much more. Learn more by visiting: http://advocacy.epilepsy.com/efa/covid-19. Additionally, you may always contact our 24/7 helpline 1-800-332-1000, contactus@efa.org, and ask to speak to a member of our advocacy or legal team to discuss this further.