People who have chronic diseases or a weakened immune system during COVID-19 pandemic

People who have one or more chronic diseases or a weakened immune system are at increased risk of complications (hospitalization, admission to intensive care and death) from infection with COVID‑19.

Here is a list of chronic diseases and health conditions that may increase the risk of developing serious complications from COVID‑19:

• chronic diseases:
  • heart or lung disease,
  • diabetes,
  • liver (including cirrhosis) or kidney disease,
  • hypertension,
• obesity;
• medical condition with decreased clearance of respiratory secretions or a risk of aspiration;
• person receiving chemotherapy or radiation therapy;
• transplant recipient (including a bone marrow transplant);
• person who is taking corticosteroids;
• person who is taking immunosuppressants;
• person who is immunocompromised;
• person living with HIV;
• person who has anemia.

People with several of these factors as well as older age have a higher risk of developing a severe form of the disease. Furthermore, people who require regular medical follow-up or hospital care for their condition are considered the most vulnerable.

People who have a chronic disease or a weakened immune system and their loved ones must:

• follow the basic health directives at all times;
• minimize contact with people;
• avoid public places;
• otherwise, wear a mask or a face covering.

Irrespective of age, additional protective measures may be required for workers who have chronic disease or a weakened immune system. For example, encouraging people to work from home or, if telework is impossible, rigorously applying specific preventive measures in some workplaces.