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COVID-19: IMPLICATIONS FOR IBD PATIENTS

The current coronavirus pandemic is an ongoing global health crisis due to COVID-19, caused by SARS-CoV-2 (severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2). While patients typically present with fever and a respiratory illness, some patients also report gastrointestinal symptoms such as diarrhea, vomiting, and abdominal pain.

While the COVID-19 pandemic is a global health emergency, patients with IBD have particular concerns for their risk for infection and management of their medical therapies.

The available guidance for patients with IBD suggest that:
  • Having IBD does not appear to increase the risk of SARS-CoV-2 infection or the development of COVID-19
  • Patients should continue current IBD treatment if disease is stable, and contact their doctor for suitable medicine if disease has flared
  • Patients should not stop their medicines without consulting their doctor
  • IBD patients should follow guidelines for general population to prevent the spread of coronavirus
Implications For IBD Patients