Are Immunocompromised Individuals More Vulnerable To COVID-19?

Are people with autoimmune diseases considered high risk for COVID-19?

Researchers have reported higher rates of severe COVID-19 and death in people with autoimmune disease than in the general population. It is unclear whether this is attributable to the autoimmune disease, the immunosuppressive medications taken to treat it, or both.

NIH launches study of extra COVID-19 vaccine dose in people with autoimmune disease

Does having multiple medical conditions increase the risk of a severe illness from COVID-19?

Certain underlying medical conditions increased risk for severe COVID-19 illness in adults. Having multiple conditions also increased risk. Obesity, diabetes with complications, and anxiety and fear-related disorders had the strongest association with death. The risk associated with a condition increased with age.

Underlying Medical Conditions Associated with Higher Risk for Severe COVID-19: Information for Healthcare Providers

What does it mean to be immunocompromised during COVID-19?

• Being immunocompromised means that your immune system is weakened, and you may be at higher risk for severe COVID-19 disease. • Many different health conditions and medications can cause you to be immunocompromised.

What Does It Mean to Be Immunocompromised During COVID-19?

Which groups of people are at increased risks of severe illness from COVID-19?

Among adults, the risk for severe illness from COVID-19 increases with age, with older adults at highest risk. Severe illness means that the person with COVID-19 may require hospitalization, intensive care, or a ventilator to help them breathe, or they may even die. People of any age with certain underlying medical conditions are also at increased risk for severe illness from SARS-CoV-2 infection.

Clinical Questions about COVID-19: Questions and Answers