What Does COVID-19 Mean for Children with Cancer or Blood Disorders?

Children with compromised immune systems are at a higher risk for developing severe COVID-19 symptoms. There are several severe childhood illnesses that can compromise a child’s immune system.

COVID-19 and children with cancer

Children with cancer who are infected with the virus that causes COVID-19 are more at risk for severe illness, according to an August 2021 study.

This risk is particularly high for patients who have had a bone marrow transplant.

Most pediatric cancer patients do relatively well if they get COVID-19. But COVID-19 can be life-threatening.

If your child is eligible for the COVID-19 vaccine, ask your child's care team about it.

COVID-19 and bone marrow transplant

A study found that bone marrow transplant patients are at a high risk for severe illness due to COVID-19, even a year or more after a transplant.

Researchers studied 318 bone marrow transplant patients who developed COVID-19. COVID-19 survival was about 68% among bone marrow transplant patients. Survival was 95–99% in the general population.

COVID-19 and children with blood disorders

All children with blood disorders are at an increased risk for severe COVID-19 complications and Multisystem Inflammatory Syndrome in Children (MIS-C).

Those at higher risk include:

• Anyone with Sickle Cell Disease — COVID-19 can cause:
  • Fever
  • Recurrent painful crises
  • Severe pneumonia
  • Other lung problems
• Those with immune disorders
• Children who are immunocompromised for other reasons, including certain medicines

The vaccine is a safe, effective way to prevent COVID-19.

What is COVID-19?

COVID-19 stands for coronavirus disease 2019. It impacts:

• Nose
• Throat
• Airways
• Lungs

Most people with COVID-19 have mild symptoms. But some people can develop more serious problems like pneumonia.

What are the symptoms of COVID-19?

Symptoms of COVID-19 include:

• Fever
• Cough
• Chills
• Shortness of breath
• Body aches
• Runny nose
• Loss of the sense of smell or taste

Most people with COVID-19 have mild symptoms. Some people may not show any symptoms.

In some cases, people with COVID-19 become very ill. Warning signs of severe illness are:

• Shortness of breath or problems breathing
• Chest pain or pressure
• Blue lips or face
• Confusion
• Decreased alertness
• Loss of consciousness
  

What should I do if my child is immunocompromised?

If your child has a weak immune system, it is important to take steps to prevent illness. Call your doctor if your child has been exposed to the virus or has symptoms.

• Everyone who is eligible should get vaccinated against COVID-19.
  
• If your child is eligible, they should receive the vaccine but continue to use face mask and practice physical distance since the immune response to the vaccine may be reduced.
• Talk to your doctor about the risk of COVID-19 and your child’s individual health needs.
• Know what to do if symptoms develop. Call ahead before going to the doctor except in an emergency.
• Make sure you have extra medicines and medical supplies on hand in case you must stay home due to quarantine. 
• Your doctor may recommend waiting on some types of medical visits. Do not delay medical visits unless it is recommended by your doctor.
  
• Reduce your risk of exposure by limiting travel, crowds, public places, and contact with people outside of your household.
• Always wear a face mask when around others who do not live with you. Ask your doctor which type of mask is best and wear it correctly.
• Keep a physical distance of at least 6 feet from others.
• Wash hands often using soap and water or use a hand sanitizer.
• Watch for symptoms.
• Know warning signs that require emergency care.

Wear a mask or face covering as your doctor recommends. If your child is immunocompromised, ask your care team about the type of mask needed and instructions for use.

More information about coronavirus and COVID-19