COVID-19 Complications and Cystic Fibrosis: Potential Risks, Symptoms, and Recommended Actions
People with cystic fibrosis (CF) may wonder about their risk of contracting COVID-19 and the potential impact on their health. Here's what you need to know.
Generally, people with CF do not have an increased risk of contracting COVID-19 compared to those without the condition. However, symptoms in people with CF, if they do contract the virus, are typically the same as those in the general population.
However, it's important to note that people with CF who have additional underlying conditions, such as a lung or solid-organ transplant, may have a higher risk of developing complications.
If a person with CF experiences symptoms of COVID-19, they should consider undergoing testing to confirm or rule out a COVID-19 diagnosis. The worldwide number of people with CF who have been seriously ill or died due to COVID-19 is low, and people with CF typically have a mild course of the infection.
To reduce the risk of COVID-19, people with CF are encouraged to follow strict hygiene measures, wear protective masks, maintain physical distancing, improve indoor air quality, and closely monitor their health.
Practicing everyday prevention strategies such as frequent hand washing or sanitizing, covering coughs and sneezes, and cleaning frequently touched surfaces regularly is essential. Wearing the most protective mask possible that fits well, especially in crowded or indoor areas, and maintaining physical distancing from others, particularly avoiding crowded places, is also crucial.
Improving indoor air quality by opening windows or doors, using exhaust fans, or employing portable air cleaners to reduce airborne virus particles can also help reduce the risk of infection.
If a person with CF tests positive for COVID-19, they should isolate and follow guidelines for returning to normal activities only after symptoms improve and they have been fever-free for at least 24 hours without medications.
People with CF, due to their chronic lung disease, may have more severe outcomes from COVID-19 and thus may require more aggressive monitoring and medical attention if infected.
A person with CF may wish to discuss any concerns they have about taking CF medications in conjunction with COVID-19-related medications and vaccines with their doctor. There is currently no evidence that COVID-19 vaccines interact with CF medications.
Doctors can determine if a person with CF may need COVID-19 treatment or hospitalization, especially if they experience more difficulty breathing than usual.
The information provided is based on publicly available data at the time of publication and may be out of date. For the most recent information on COVID-19, visit the coronavirus hub.
People with CF can reduce their risk of COVID-19 by staying up to date with COVID-19 vaccines, improving indoor ventilation, spending time outdoors when possible, considering wearing a face mask or face protection, social distancing, and avoiding getting too close to a person who has COVID-19.
If a person with CF tests positive for COVID-19, they should contact their doctor and inform them about their health conditions and symptoms. More research is necessary to fully understand the impact of COVID-19 on people with cystic fibrosis.
- Individuals with cystic fibrosis (CF) need to be aware of their potential medical-conditions, especially in relation to chronic diseases like COVID-19, as they may face more severe outcomes.
- During this pandemic, it's crucial for those with CF to prioritize mental-health, as staying informed and following health-and-wellness protocols can be stressful.
- CBD, a compound found in cannabis, has been researched for its potential therapeutic effects on inflammation and pain management in people with cystic fibrosis, but further scientific studies are required to fully understand its benefits and safety in relation to COVID-19.
