In light of the outbreak of the latest coronavirus (2019-nCoV) IPOPI is releasing a statement to provide guidance for our members. Coronaviruses are common in many different animal species and it is rare that they infect people and spread between them, but it happens. During previous coronavirus outbreaks, the person-to-person transmission occurred through droplets, contact and fomites, which suggests that the transmission mode of the 2019- nCoV can be similar. There is currently no vaccine available.
A respiratory virus that can be spread from person-to-person is a risk for PID patients. Therefore, PID patients should be cautious and keep track of developments of the virus in their region. Whilst immunoglobulin replacement therapy provides protection against a range of infections, it does not guarantee immunity against coronavirus. The World Health Organization’s and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s recommendations to reduce exposure to and transmission of the coronavirus 2019-nCoV include but are not limited to:
- Avoid close contact with people suffering from acute respiratory infections
- Avoid close contact with anyone who has fever and cough
- People with symptoms of acute respiratory infection should practice cough etiquette (maintain distance, cover coughs and sneezes with disposable tissues or clothing, and wash hands) and wear a respiratory mask
- Frequent handwashing by using alcohol-based hand rub or soap and water, especially after direct contact with ill people or their environment
PID patients in endemic areas
For PID patients who live in endemic areas, beyond the precautions mentioned above, we advise prompt contact with a doctor if an infection is suspected. Patients should always keep the details of their PID diagnosis and medical charts, medications, PID expert doctor and next of kin at hand, in case urgent medical care is needed. We further recommend continuous monitoring of information from national public health authorities, statements from regional centres for disease prevention and control as well as from the World Health Organization.
IPOPI is monitoring the situation and following developments closely and will continue to update our members if necessary.