Your immune system protects your body from harmful bacteria, viruses, and other pathogens that can cause illness.
If your immune system is not functioning properly, you are more likely to become infected with contagious diseases.
This is sometimes referred to as ‘primary immunodeficiency.’
Illustration by Joules Garcia for Verywell Health
Handwashing can only protect you so much, especially around airborne pathogens.
For example, you may want to avoid going out in public shortly after a chemotherapy treatment.
This includes immunizations against seasonal illnesses like COVID-19 and influenza (the flu).
Immunocompromised people should neverreceivelive versions of any vaccines.
Talk to your healthcare provider about your immune status before receiving any vaccinations.
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American Lung Association.The COVID-19 and immunocompromised connection.
National Institutes of Health.Immunocompromised.
Hussain Y, Khan H.Immunosuppressive drugs.Encyclopedia of Infection and Immunity.
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Immune Deficiency Foundation.Laboratory tests.
Sepsis Alliance.Infection prevention in immunocompromised people.
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.Altered immunocompetence: general best practices for immunization.
