Coronavirus information for liver patients
Written by:
Hepatologist
Published: 09/04/2020
Edited by: Emma McLeod
Get clarification on the impact coronavirus COVID-19 has on patients with liver disease or specifically those with cirrhosis or those undergoing treatment for chronic hepatitis. Professor Patrick Kennedy, a leading liver specialist, provides you with reliable and trustworthy information on how to approach maintaining your current liver management during the pandemic.
Should I self-isolate if I have an existing liver condition?
If you have a diagnosis of cirrhosis have had a liver transplant or are taking immunosuppressive medication, it’s critical that you stay at home to avoid being exposed to COVID-19. Click here for a full list of clinically vulnerable groups advised to shield themselves for at least 12 weeks during the COVID crisis.
However, if you’re on antiviral therapy for chronic hepatitis B (CHB) but don’t have a diagnosed liver disease (significant fibrosis or cirrhosis), you should not be at any increased risk from COVID-19. In this case, you should continue to take your antiviral therapy and follow the advice for the general population; work from home if possible and maintain social distancing to reduce your risk of contracting the virus.
What will happen to the management of my condition?
The majority of hospital and specialist clinics have made arrangements for antiviral therapy and other medications usually prescribed in these clinics to be prescribed in advance over the coming months. In some cases, medications will be couriered to patients to minimize hospital visits and potential exposure to COVID-19. In addition, routine laboratory tests and surveillance imaging will be deferred for many patients. Please liaise directly with your treating physician to determine what plans are in place for your care during the COVID crisis.
What if I’m experiencing COVID-19 symptoms?
If you are experiencing symptoms of COVID-19, such as a fever, muscle aches and pains (myalgia) or a dry persistent cough, you should call NHS 111 immediately. Do not visit your local GP surgery or walk-in clinic. Instead, self-isolate at home and visit the NHS website for advice.
Where can I find up-to-date information about Coronavirus online?
It’s important to get accurate and up-to-date information about COVID-19. Please see the Public Health England website. There are many fraudulent and inaccurate sources of information circulating on the internet. Therefore, it’s critical that you get hold of and share information from reputable sources like Public Health England.
Click here to discover how Professor Kennedy, a leading liver specialist in London, can help you look after your liver.