Last month, the World Health Organization announced that the pandemic is no longer a public emergency. However, although cases have decreased and people have tossed their masks to the side, COVID hasn't disappeared altogether.
Since the end of the COVID emergency, testing for COVID-19 has been less frequently reported making it harder to tell how much of the virus is circulating at one time.
This has alarmed many immunocompromised individuals who remain at high risk of developing severe complications even after vaccination and previous infections.
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The good news, however, is that we know how the virus is spread. Therefore, those who are at the highest risk for complications and want to protect themselves and their loved ones from COVID can take the appropriate measures to prevent severe disease and death.
Here are ways you can amp up your defense as an immunocompromised individual.
1. Get vaccinated.
If you haven't gotten vaccinated yet, it is never too late to do so. Medical providers and pharmacies are still giving vaccines.
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2. Get a second dose of the bivalent vaccine.
If you are 65 and older, you are eligible for a second dose of the bivalent vaccine. As an immunocompromised individual, you can really benefit from the extra protection of these vaccines, which are effective against Omicron variants.
3. Wear your mask.
Others may have tossed their mask to the side, but you still have the right to wear yours. Even if you are the only one wearing one, you can still benefit from the extra protection, especially if you find yourself in a crowded indoor space.
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4. Consider oral medication.
If you do test positive for COVID, an oral antiviral medication in the early stage of the disease can reduce your risk of hospitalization or death. Before taking this medication, consult with your healthcare provider to make sure it is safe for you.
5. Stay on top of your health.
Staying as healthy as possible with good nutrition, exercise, rest, and stress reduction is another critical part of protecting yourself against COVID. As an immunocompromised individual, it is important to monitor your health. This includes keeping up with your treatments and monitoring your symptoms. If you spot any changes in your symptoms, you should let your healthcare provider know.
Staying on top of your health also includes the foods you are putting in your body. Avoid restrictive diets, which are harmful to immune function. Instead, opt for a diet that includes a balance of macro and micronutrients to maintain a healthy immune system.
6. Try monoclonal antibodies.
Antibodies play an important role in fighting illnesses like COVID, however, those with immunocompromised conditions such as cancer, kidney disease, lupus, etc. may have trouble building antibodies. This is where monoclonal antibodies come in handy.
Talk with your healthcare provider to determine if monoclonal antibodies are right for you. He or she can help you decide if you’ll benefit from this type of therapy.
7. Get tested regularly.
Although testing for COVID has slowed down, this should still be one of your lines of defense. Regular testing will allow you to catch the disease right away so that you can take the appropriate measures to protect yourself as soon as possible and prevent severe complications.
8. Take care of your teeth.
Some of the immunosuppression medications you may be taking can lead to dental problems. If you spot any problems with your teeth, mouth, or gums, notify your dentist because these can lead to other health concerns.
If your immune system isn’t in tip-top shape, and you are still worried about how COVID may affect your health, being proactive and following these tips will help you better protect yourself.
