The more you understand about primary immunodeficiency (PI), the better you can live with the disease or support others in your life with PI. Learn more about PI, including the various diagnoses and treatment options.
Living with primary immunodeficiency (PI) can be challenging, but you’re not alone—many people with PI lead full and active lives. With the right support and resources, you can, too.
Be a hero for those with PI. Change lives by promoting primary immunodeficiency (PI) awareness and taking action in your community through advocacy, donating, volunteering, or fundraising.
Whether you’re a clinician, researcher, or an individual with primary immunodeficiency (PI), IDF has resources to help you advance the field. Get details on surveys, grants, and clinical trials.
There are some logical ways to make an informed choice about travel outside of the U.S. Use the CDC’s three-level warning system, which is frequently updated and considered reliable.
Public health experts say the biggest health risk for domestic travel now is the flu. No part of the U.S. is considered higher risk for coronavirus than any other at the present (Feb 28, 2020), but because the situation is rapidly evolving, checking with local jurisdictions before making travel plans is important.
The World Health Organization (WHO) says the virus is transmitted by droplets, and only lives on surfaces for short periods, perhaps 30 minutes. Other health groups have questioned that, suggesting it can live much longer on surfaces. If you are concerned, wipe down any surface you are going to have contact with on airplanes or other public spaces, such as hotel rooms, restaurants, public doors, public transportation, etc.
There is no vaccine or antibiotics. People can be infected and transmit the virus even though they do not have symptoms which makes it difficult to identify and isolate these individuals.
The CDC urges patients need to stay connected with their local health department to determine whether the virus has been detected in their geographical area and to follow general preparedness guidelines. If cases have been detected in your area, you should stay away from large gatherings (movies, places of worship, restaurants). If you have to work and your job allows for it, ask your employer whether you can work from home and if children can stay home from school or attend remotely. When outside the home, wear a mask, avoid shaking hands, and wash hands regularly.
Paper surgical masks are effective at keeping you from spreading the disease if you are sick, but not effective at blocking you from ingesting the virus. For that, health experts recommend an N95 respirator—a heavy-duty mask.
The Plasma Protein Therapeutics Association (PPTA) has issued a statement (February 17, 2020) stating that the virus, a lipid envelope virus, is not a concern for the safety of plasma protein therapies, including immunoglobulin (Ig), manufactured by PPTA member companies (this covers all U.S. suppliers).
According to PPTA, “based on strict screening procedures for plasma donors and the established processes of virus inactivation and removal during the manufacturing of plasma-derived products, PPTA concludes that the SARS-CoV-2 is not a concern for the safety margins of plasma protein therapies manufactured by PPTA member companies.”
Because of the broad range of treatment protocols, your best course of action is to talk to your care team with any concerns about your treatment regimen.
You can read the most recent statement from PPTA here: https://www.pptaglobal.org/media-and-information/ppta-statements/1055
Receive news and helpful resources to your cell phone or inbox. You can change or cancel your subscription at any time.
The Immune Deficiency Foundation improves the diagnosis, treatment, and quality of life for every person affected by primary immunodeficiency.
We foster a community that is connected, engaged, and empowered through advocacy, education, and research.
Combined Charity Campaign | CFC# 66309