source: St. Jude Children's Research Hospital

year: 2020

authors: Jane S. Hankins

Months into the pandemic, we’re learning more about children with sickle cell disease who become infected with the virus that causes COVID-19. In addition to the myriad complications related to sickle cell disease and treatment, a COVID-19 infection creates additional challenges. According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), children with underlying medical conditions such as sickle cell disease may have an increased risk for severe COVID-19.

Sickle Cell Disease and Day-to-Day Activities

Maintain physical distance from others. Wear a mask. Continue with treatment. I am hearing about many patients avoiding hospital visits because they fear COVID-19 exposure. At St. Jude, we can triage the severity of the issues and, if necessary, see our patients in person. Remember, postponing a medical visit can lead to severe sickle cell disease complications.