In light of recent events, I wanted to share a little bit more about immunocompromised children and what the coronavirus means for them and their families.

Immunocompromised means “having an impaired immune system,” which can have devastating effects for both children and adults. Our immune system is our body’s greatest defense. It’s main job is to detect foreign substances, which are called antigens, and get rid of them as quickly as possible!

Typically, our immune systems grow stronger as we get older, which leaves children the most susceptible to weakened immune systems. It is because of this same reason that kids get sick more frequently than adults, and it takes kids longer to get over illnesses than it does adults.

For those that are immunocompromised, fighting diseases and infections is much more difficult than those with typical immune systems. Examples of children who are immunocompromised include preemies, transplant patients, post-op patients, chemo patients and those with certain genetic conditions. Children with Down syndrome, lupus, chronic lung disease and cystic fibrosis are also at an increased risk of immune deficiency.

So, what effect does the coronavirus have on this? Well, the CDC is still learning exactly how the coronavirus spreads, but what they do know is that a healthy person who contracts the virus will likely recover fine. The same cannot be said for those who are immunocompromised. The coronavirus is inciting fear and widespread panic across the country, causing stores to sell out of antibacterial wipes, soap, hand sanitizer, toilet paper and even bottled water. This panic, which, for most of us, happens once in a lifetime, is the same panic that parents of immunocompromised children feel EVERY. SINGLE. DAY.

These families are completely dependent on the rest of us following the CDC’s recommendations, doing our part, and abiding by self-quarantine regulations should the scenario arise. A majority of the infected people will experience moderate, or even mild symptoms, but the disease can be deadly for those who are immunocompromised, meaning sick kids get sicker.

Do your part. Stay calm. Trust the recommendations of the CDC. And please, please wash your hands. Our immunocompromised children are depending on it.

...mg