A new information pack aimed at helping people with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) who are cocooning, has been developed by COPD Support Ireland.

COPD is an umbrella term for a number of chronic lung disorders, including bronchitis and emphysema. It is a progressive, disabling condition caused by a narrowing of the airways.

An estimated 500,000 people in Ireland are affected and when it comes to COVID-19, they are considered a vulnerable group. As a result, they have to cocoon as part of the Government's restrictions aimed at reducing the spread of the virus.

The Cocooning with COPD information pack contains tips and advice in relation to physical and mental wellbeing. It includes techniques to help cope with breathlessness, guidance on nutrition and exercises that people can do in their homes.

"We know that for many people with COPD, not only are they socially isolated at the moment, but they are also digitally isolated to a large degree. They may not have access to the internet and even if they do, they may not know how best to go about using it.

The Cocooning with COPD pack aims to bridge that gap by providing people with information straight into their hands, that they can flick through for advice as to how to best maintain their physical and mental health," explained Joan Johnston, national coordinator of COPD Support Ireland.

She urged anyone who knows someone with COPD to reach out to them and see if they need any additional support, such as shopping or simply to chat.

"I would also urge people with COPD to pay close attention to their own signs and symptoms. They will know if they are having a flare-up of COPD and, if concerned, they should seek medical advice without delay so that they can be monitored," Ms Johnston said.

The Cocooning with COPD information pack can be downloaded from www.copd.ie or can be ordered by texting the word 'COPD', along with your name and address, to 51444. Standard network charges apply however there is no other charge associated with receiving the pack, such as postal charges.

Meanwhile people with queries about their condition can also speak to a specialist respiratory nurse on the COPD Adviceline. This is a callback service and an appointment will be made for a nurse to return a call to you at a time that suits. The line is open Monday to Friday, from 9am to 5pm, and is free of charge. Call 1800 83 21 46.