What are the symptoms of Covid-19 for an aplastic anaemia patient?

The NHS outlines the common symptoms of coronavirus on its website.

Am I more at risk of becoming seriously ill?

Coronavirus can have serious effects on anyone who has a long-term health condition or a weakened immune system, including some people with cancer or aplastic anaemia. 

Some people are more at risk of becoming seriously ill if they contract the Covid-19 infection:

• People having chemotherapy, or who have received chemotherapy in the last three months
• People having immunotherapy or other continuing antibody treatments
• People having other targeted treatments which can affect the immune system, such as protein kinase inhibitors.
• People having intensive (radical) radiotherapy for lung cancer
• People who have had bone marrow or stem cell transplants in the last 6 months, or who are still taking immunosuppression drugs
• People with some types of blood cancer which damage the immune system, even if they have not needed treatment (for example, chronic leukaemia, lymphoma or myeloma).

Your clinician may advise you to minimise your risk of exposure to Covid-19 infection by avoiding crowded environments, limiting social interaction and maintaining careful hand hygiene.

How do I protect myself from Coronavirus?

Follow the NHS advice on avoiding catching or spreading germs. You can find advice from us on how to avoid viruses, including Covid-19, here.

Being vaccinated against COVID-19 offers the best level of protection for you, and significantly reduces the likelihood of you becoming seriously unwell in the event of you having Coronavirus.. It is very important that you receive all doses of the Coronavirus vaccine that you are eligible for. Recent studies by a team of researchers in Leeds have shown that the vast majority of people with aplastic anaemia and PNH mount a satisfactory immune response after receiving two or more doses of the vaccine. You can find out more information about the vaccine and research by clicking here.

Will my treatment be postponed/delayed as a result of the health crisis?

The NHS will continue to provide treatment as normal. In the event of any disruption, clinicians will always make decisions to prioritise treatment for those most in need and in consultation with patients.

Many patients may find hospitals make changes to their services in order to keep everyone safer - for example by having consultations by video call instead of meeting in person. 

How will children in treatment be affected?

Data currently seems to show that the infection is milder in children than in adults.

However, children and young people undergoing treatment for their aplastic anaemia have a weakened immune system which will make it harder for the body to fight off infections such as COVID-19.  It is important for children and young people with AA and their families to follow precautionary steps to protect themselves where possible, as recommended by the NHS.

Parents will find it useful to watch videos of our Q&A webinar with Dr Sujith Samarasinghe in August 2020.

What should I do if I am exposed to the virus?

If you have been in close contact with someone with confirmed coronavirus, the advice currently is to self-isolate for 10 days. Government's latest advice for households with a possible coronavirus infection is available here.

How will Covid-19 affect my bone marrow transplant?

Transplants may be deferred as a result of a Covid-19 diagnosis, in the donor or the recipient. The clinical advice around Covid-19 and transplants is updated regularly, you can find a lot of useful information on the Anthony Nolan website here. 

Will aplastic anaemia patients be able to have the coronavirus vaccine?

Read the latest Coronavirus shielding guidance and find support.

Did we answer your questions?

Our team are working hard to keep our Coronavirus Resources useful and up to date. If you have a question that isn't answered here, or you have an issue you would like our help with, please email us at [email protected] or call our helpline on +44 (0) 300 102 3202.