Immunodeficiency Disorders and COVID-19

Last updated: February 16, 2022

If you live with an immunodeficiency disorder, you have a higher risk of developing more serious illness from COVID-19.

Your physician can review your medical record to help you understand your personal risk. More information about immunodeficiency disorders and COVID-19 is available from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the Immune Deficiency Foundation.

Here are answers to some common questions you may have. This information might change as we learn more about COVID-19. If you have other questions, talk to your physician.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Am I more likely to get sick from COVID-19 because I have an immunodeficiency disorder?
  • What can I do to stay healthy during the COVID-19 pandemic?
  • Should I keep taking daily medication to manage my immunodeficiency disorder?
  • What should I do if I have an immunodeficiency disorder and symptoms of COVID-19?
  • If I have been exposed to someone who has COVID-19 but do not have symptoms, what should I do?

If you live with an immunodeficiency disorder, you are more likely to get seriously ill from COVID-19.

The virus causes intense infection and inflammation in the body. This can place more stress on the immune system for people who live with an immunodeficiency, or who take medications to suppress their immune system. This means your immune system is less able to fight infections.

Everyone should follow CDC guidelines to help prevent COVID-19 exposure and infection. We urge you to:

  • Get vaccinated.
  • Wear a mask.
  • Physically distance.
  • Exercise.
  • Eat well.
  • Reduce stress.
  • Get plenty of sleep.

Keep at least a 2-week supply of your medications. If you need a refill, call your physician or send a request through MyNM. While refilling your prescription, you can limit exposure to COVID-19 by using a mail-order service or drive-thru pharmacy. Or, have a caregiver pick up your medication.

You should continue taking your current medications. If you receive monthly immunoglobulin replacement therapy infusions, please continue to receive your treatment.

If you have a question about your medications, please call your physician or send your care team a question through the MyNM patient portal. You can access MyNM at mynm.nm.org or through the MyNM® app on a mobile device.

Do not make changes to your medication without talking to your care team first.

If you have COVID-19 symptoms such as a fever, cough, sore throat or shortness of breath, you should be tested for COVID-19. Learn about your testing options in the COVID-19 Resource Center at nm.org/covid19.

The answer depends on many factors. Follow guidelines from the CDC.