Are People With Autoimmune Diseases Considered High Risk For COVID-19?
COVID-19Common questionAre 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.
Are you at risk of experiencing an autoimmune disease flare-up from COVID-19 vaccine?
There is a risk that flare-ups may occur. That being said, it has been observed that people living with autoimmune and inflammatory conditions are at higher risk of experiencing severe symptoms from a COVID-19 infection.
COVID Vaccine & Autoimmune Disease FAQ
Can COVID-19 cause an autoimmune disease?
Widespread and long-term inflammation during severe COVID-19 may cause the immune system to produce antibodies to pieces of the virus it wouldn't normally recognize. Some of those pieces might resemble human proteins enough to trigger the production of autoantibodies.
Autoimmune response found in many with COVID-19
Should you get the Covid vaccine if you have an autoimmune disease?
The American College of Rheumatology COVID-19 Vaccine Clinical Guidance recommends that people with autoimmune and inflammatory rheumatic disease (which includes lupus) get the vaccine unless they have an allergy to an ingredient in the vaccine.
COVID-19 vaccine and lupus
Who are some groups at higher risk for serious illness from COVID-19?
Some people may be at higher risk of severe illness. This includes older adults (65 years and older) and people of any age with serious underlying medical conditions. By using strategies that help prevent the spread of COVID-19 in the workplace, you will help protect all employees, including those at higher risk.
Coronavirus (COVID-19) frequently asked questions