Coronavirus (COVID-19) and Transplant Patients
Last Updated 9/13/2021
Navigating COVID-19 as an Immunocompromised Individual
Coronavirus (COVID-19) is spread mainly from person-to-person. Older adults and people with suppressed immune systems or other chronic medical conditions seem to be at higher risk for more serious reactions. Because of this increased risk for transplant, kidney, liver, and other patients, it is especially important for our community to take preventative actions to protect ourselves. The American Society for Transplantation (AST) recommends these actions to reduce your exposure:
Receive the COVID-19 vaccine, as well has having household members and caregivers receive the vaccine to reduce risk.
Continued adherence of all transplant recipients to protective measures such as masking and social distancing is recommended regardless of vaccination status.
For pre-transplant patients, vaccination completion at least 2 weeks prior to transplantation if possible. For post-transplant patients, vaccination beginning as early as 1-3 months after transplantation. This can be individualized based on immunosuppression.
A third dose of mRNA vaccine in patients who have received two previous doses of mRNA vaccine, as approved by the FDA. We encourage a conversation between the provider and the patient which considers the patient’s individual situation.
