protecting against infection

[ProudAmma]

Since I had my kidney transplant 2 years ago during Covid and I’m over 70 years old,I have had to be particularly careful about getting infections. Now that Covid is subsiding and people are going back to normal, I’m not sure how careful I need to continue to be. Before transplant, I had a robust immune system and didn’t concern myself about getting ill. Does anyone have experience with a depressed immune system before Covid as to how careful you were about being out in public, i.e. indoor concerts/plays during flu seasons, eating indoors, indoor sports like basketball games….I appreciate your insight. I would sure like to get back to a somewhat normal active life. Thank you.

[TeacherMommy]

I am looking forward to hearing others’ replies.

I am only 1 month out from transplant and am therefore being very cautious, wearing masks everywhere and not going into indoor places much. My 9 year old son would very much like to be “normal” and not have to be so careful, but that day will come eventually.

I will say that I hear many stories from transplant recipients that they continue to wear masks.

I hope all of us can relax and enjoy a more normal life in the not too distant future! Best wishes to you.

[sugabear]

Can you reach out to your transplant team? My husband is seven months out and we’ve been told the first year is very crucial. We try to be creative with the things we do. If you really want to enjoy activities, wear a good mask and go. Don’t let other people ruin your fun.

[NoCaGirl]

I had my transplant 2 years ago and because of the covid risk, I do not go into any crowded places, wear a KN95 mask whenever I am indoors at pharmacy, doctor's office, grocery store. It is not worth getting covid. I am 5X vaxed but seronegative and so don't take risks. Evusheld helps but it is not effective against all variants. Be careful - Covid hits those over 65 the hardest and among transplant recipients, those who are newest (under 3 years), mycophenolate mofitil are most likely to not develop sufficient antibody levels (accd to the JHU study I participate in). Good luck to you. Be safe.

[Betsymydog]

Iam 9 months out from transplant and try to be really careful when I’m out especially around many people like grocery stores, etc.

[LisaSnow]

Those within one or two years out from transplant are on highest doses of immunosuppressive meds so they should be extra careful, especially when the general public are not.. There are more people with mild symptoms of COVID but go out without mask, and unknowingly pass the virus to others. I continue to wear mask in public but make it fun and fashionable by wearing mask that matches my outfit. Other members were right that it isn't worth getting COVID or the flu.