A panel of stroke experts from the Gulf and Iran region convened a consensus meeting to discuss how
the Covid-19 pandemic has affected stroke care in the region. Lower stroke admissions were observed
locally, but acute stroke care has largely been maintained in their centres despite the challenges of staff
and resource shortages, and public fear of the virus. This article provides a snapshot of the pandemic
in the region, its impact on local stroke care, highlights the approaches and practices shared between
panellists in order to protect stroke care pathways during this uncertain period, and provides a guideline
that is simple and easily adaptable to different locations. The intent is to protect stroke care pathways
through Covid-19 risk stratification, infection control measures, and ensuring that all stroke patients
have a full Covid-19 diagnostic assessment. Opportunities for increasing the use of telemedicine to
reduce physical contact between patients and healthcare workers is also discussed.