Everyday People Matter

Covid-19 and the Immunocompromised What You Should Know

On Behalf of | Mar 20, 2020 | corona virus, Covid- 19

You must have heard or read the term “immunocompromised” all over the media in relation to Covid-19 or the Corona virus epidemic that’s currently raging across the US. Simply put, the term “immunocompromised” refers to a person who may suffer from low immunity or immunity deficiency due to a variety of conditions. This lack of immunity places the person at a higher risk of a Covid-19 infection.

The body’s immune defenses consist of special cells that attack pathogens that enter the body, protecting the person from illness and infections. There are many health conditions that may make your immune system weak, leaving you vulnerable to infections.

Compromised immune deficiency can be either temporary or permanent. If you suffer from heart disease, diabetes, kidney or liver damage, or lupus, you are considered immunocompromised.  All types of cancers will leave the immune system severely compromised and at risk of infections. Persons who suffer from these conditions must be especially careful about following all safety protocols that are recommended to prevent a Covid-19 infection.

Persons, who are malnourished, such as those on extreme diets, also need to be especially careful about avoiding Covid-19 risk factors, and practicing social distancing.

There can be mental or psychological conditions that may also reduce your immunity. Stress, depression and anxiety can all mean a lowered immune defense system.

When the body’s immune system is weakened, it fails to put up even typical responses to an infection like a fever. That means that infections are able to enter the system and remain and thrive for longer periods of time, because the person does not even realize that he is suffering from an infection.

If you are immunocompromised, make sure that you avoid crowds, and sanitize hands regularly. Practice social distancing stringently.