My husband has had AVR, does he need to isolate?

[anniendave1]

My husband had his heart valve replaced a year ago and recovered really well and back to full fitness. Is he still classed as vulnerable for coronavirus?? We have had nothing from the Dr ..

[Midgeymoo17]

He is unlikely (and not if this his only problem) to be classified as being in the highest risk group (the shielded group). As such will not benefit from the protection of govermental advice for this group - I am sure you heard about the letters the government sent out.

However, he will fall at least in the moderate risk group. The best explanation I have seen on the difference is here:

nhs.uk/conditions/coronavir...

Generally, the advice for this group is you have to make your own mind up based on your individual situation (long and short term risks) - ironically that is always (whatever the question) the advice given by my cardiologist.

[anniendave1 in reply to Midgeymoo17]

Thanks for replying. Hopefully he will keep well. Stay safe xx

[Nic25]

Hi Anniendave1. Glad first he's all recovered. We're all different of course but if it helps, I had an AVR 18 months or so ago and am also fully recovered. I also have mild asthma and slightly high blood pressure, for which I take a low dose of candesartan.

I was told (by my asthma nurse) that those, combined with having had the AVR, put me in a moderate risk category, so below shielding but higher than someone of my age (52) without any health conditions if that helps?

Other risk factors may of course also come into play - weight, smoking, genetics, background (BAME for eg). If you're concerned perhaps see if you can speak to your GP or even maybe practice nurse (over the phone I imagine) for more specific advice or reassurance?

These are worrying times. But I hope that helps at least a bit.

Good luck. Nic x

[anniendave1 in reply to Nic25]

Thanks for replying. He is very fit, slim , and a non smoker, takes vitamins every day Hes not too worried (typical man) but on the whole looking at all the info above hopefully he would be ok even if he did get it. We are being careful. Keep safe and well xx