The use ofimmunosuppressantmedicines influences this process so that transplant recipients can live longer, healthier lives.
However, immunosuppression also puts a person at risk for other infections and severe COVID-19.
Critical illness is defined as respiratory failure and/or multiple organ failure.
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One study found the mortality rate among heart transplant recipients who contracted COVID-19 to be approximately 25%.
This complication can be particularly concerning forkidney transplantrecipients.
However, it can occur in other types of transplant patients, as well.
Acute kidney injury can be temporary.
Researchers found that approximately 76% ofheart transplantpatients suffered heart injury during the infection.
In a single center in New York City,lung transplantpatients were more likely to require intensive care.
If they needed mechanical ventilation to help them breathe, they had almost 100% mortality.
Long COVID
Finally, people with a transplant might be more likely to developlong COVID.
Researchers are still discovering which groups are at the highest risk for chronic symptoms from COVID-19.
The CDC indicates that even people who did not have significant COVID-19 symptoms can develop post-COVID conditions.
Moreover, the initial thought was that people hospitalized with COVID-19 were more likely to develop long COVID.
Transplant Treatments and COVID-19
Transplant recipients typically continue on treatments that suppress the immune system.
These treatments are necessary so that a person’s immune system does not attack the transplanted tissue.
Alternatively, if the metabolism speeds up, the blood levels of immunosuppressive medications will drop.
Immunocompromised people also should be sure to get updated COVID boosters.
Some complications include acute kidney injury, long COVID, and organ damage.
Experts and transplant specialists need to be heavily involved in the care of transplant patients.
A Word From Verywell
Being a transplant recipient is already extremely stressful outside of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Treatment regimens are intense, and healthcare provider visits are frequent.
Adding another layer of complexity and concern about COVID-19 can be overwhelming.
The most important thing you could do is complete the COVID-19 vaccination series.
You must stay in touch with your transplant specialist, especially if you contract COVID-19.
Keep your hands clean, wear a mask, and stay away from large crowds indoors.
The information in this article is current as of the date listed.
As new research becomes available, we will update this article.
There are also other FDA-authorized or approved medications available.
However, healthcare providers still recommend COVID-19 vaccination because of its effectiveness in the general population.
The CDC recommends the mRNA vaccinesModernaorPfizer-BioNTechbecause of their effectiveness and lack of concerning side effects.
The COVID-19 vaccines can be offered as early as three months after an HSCT.
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