What is the difference between immunosuppressed and immunocompromised? I have Crohn's disease and am taking Humira.

Question

I have COVID-19 and that plays into how long I can stay in isolation. I have internships and I have to prove that I am not immunosuppressed. When you take an immunosuppressive drug, does that make you immunosuppressed?

Jean-Sébastien Lecompte · Accepted Answer

Hello, Being immunosuppressed or immunocompromised (two terms that are synonymous) implies that the immune system is less able to defend itself against infections. It is able to defend itself, but less effectively. You can still recover from some infections naturally, but closer follow-up with a doctor is needed when a fever episode lasts more than 3 days or when symptoms suggest that the infection is not mild. Taking Humira for Crohn's disease means that you are considered immunocompromised. You can be cured of COVID-19 while on Humira, but the risk of being sick longer is there