Are you immunocompromised?

People who are immunocompromised can have a higher risk of infections, including viral, bacterial, and fungal . During seasons when respiratory illnesses are commonly spreading from person to person, it can be particularly concerning to someone who is immunocompromised. But what makes you immunocompromised? Find out what is considered immunocompromised and what actions you can take to protect yourself from getting sick with coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) and other illnesses. 

The immune system's job is to protect you from harmful substances, such as bacteria, viruses and fungi (pathogens) that could make you sick. When a healthy immune system detects a disease-causing pathogen, it responds by producing antibodies and activating immune cells to attack the microorganism. This response keeps you from getting sick or helps you heal if you become ill. People who are immunocompromised have weakened immune systems, and they may not be able to produce an adequate immune response. This reduces your ability to fight off infections and other disease-causing changes in the body.

You can be born with a compromised immune system, such as in genetic conditions; however, there are other factors that can cause you to become immunocompromised. These can include:

• Certain diseases and conditions, such as diabetes, cancer, human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), and acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS)
• Certain medications and treatments, such as anticancer medicines and radiation therapy, and prolonged use of corticosteroids or other immune-weakening medications
• Having a bone marrow, stem cell or organ transplant also weakens your immune system
• Aging, because the immune system becomes less effective as you age
• Pregnancy
• Smoking
• Significant alcohol intake
• Malnutrition

Some factors only weaken your immune system temporarily, such as pregnancy or treatment with certain medications. Your immune system can also weaken for a brief time when you're sick with an infection, such as the flu or measles.

The terms immunocompromised and immunosuppressed are often used as if they mean the same thing, but they’re slightly different.

Immunosuppression means that part of the immune system is being intentionally weakened, often by medical treatments like chemotherapy.

Immunocompromised refers to someone whose immune system doesn’t respond as well as it should. Their body may not fight off infections or heal as quickly or strongly as an immune system usually would.

If you aren't sure if you're immunocompromised, talk to your healthcare provider. They can help determine if you have a disease or condition, use medications, or have any other factors that may weaken your immune system. They can also let you know how long it will take your weakened immune system to recover, if possible.

If you are immunocompromised, respiratory illnesses such as influenza and COVID-19 may be harder for your body to fight off and could lead to serious complications such as hospitalization or in some cases, death. The best way to prevent getting a contagious illness like COVID-19 is to avoid exposure to the virus. But you can also take steps to help protect yourself, including:

1. Avoid close contact with people. 
   Respiratory illnesses often spread between people who are in close contact with each other. When an infected person coughs, sneezes or talks, they produce respiratory droplets. These droplets can land in the mouths or noses of people who are nearby, or possibly be inhaled into their lungs. Avoid very crowded indoor settings and try to improve ventilation by opening doors or windows when you must be around people indoors.
2. Clean your hands often. 
   Wash your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. Always wash your hands after spending time in a public space, coughing, sneezing or blowing your nose. When soap and water aren't available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol. Make sure to cover all surfaces of your hands with the sanitizer. Then rub your hands together until they feel dry. Do not touch your eyes, nose or mouth with unwashed hands. 
3. Follow the advice of your healthcare provider. 
   Continue all medications and treatments as directed by your provider. Keep your healthcare provider informed about any new health symptoms you may have and always consult with them before starting a new medication or supplement. 
4. Talk to your healthcare provider about vaccinations. 
   It’s important for people with compromised immune systems to get vaccinated against COVID-19, influenza, pneumonia and other illnessesvaccinated against COVID-19, influenza, pneumonia and other illnesses, if eligible. Ask your provider if you're current on vaccines and which ones may be right for you.
5. Clean and disinfect high-traffic items and surfaces in your home. 
   Certain items and surfaces can allow bacteria and viruses to be spread from person to person. You can disinfect shared, high-traffic areas with sanitizing wipes to keep illnesses from spreading amongst family members. These may include countertops, door handles, light switches, and shared electronics. 

If you're immunocompromised, there are ways to help protect yourself from illness. Be sure to contact your healthcare provider if you have concerns about your condition or if you feel sick.

Clinically reviewed and updated by Julie McDaniel, MSN, RN, CRNI, October 2025.