Managing Your Medical Condition

If you have a preexisting medical condition—such as cancer or a heart or lung problem—you may have a higher risk of becoming seriously ill from COVID-19. Severe infection can lead to hospitalization, intensive care or even death.

Ask your doctor or health care provider about how best to manage your condition(s) and protect yourself from the virus. Staying up to date on the vaccines and taking preventive measures are important, especially if you are older, have a serious health condition or have multiple conditions.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has more information on health conditions that put you at higher risk of serious COVID-19 and actions you can take.

Cancer

If you have cancer, or if you’ve had it in the past, you are more likely to get very sick from COVID-19. Cancer treatment can weaken your body’s ability to fight the virus. Learn more.

COPD

Having a chronic lung disease like COPD increases your risk of severe illness from COVID-19. Complications can include pneumonia. Learn more.

Heart

While COVID-19 most commonly affects the lungs, it can also lead to serious heart problems. Specifically, it can prevent oxygen from reaching the heart muscle. Learn more.