Important Information on Coronavirus (COVID-19) and Your Health
Your health and safety are our top priority. Fresenius Kidney Care is dedicated to providing you with the highest-quality care and support in every circumstance. The coronavirus (COVID-19) situation has been changing quickly, and we will continue to provide updated information as it becomes available.
Tips For How To Get The Vaccine
Ask your doctor about getting vaccinated.
Call or visit the website of your state, county, or local health department. Each state has it’s own process and guidelines for distributing the vaccines, which are being provided by the federal government.
- Sign up for notifications on vaccine availability
- Preregister for your vaccination
Share your interest in getting the vaccine with your family, friends, and coworkers—they may know where to get it.
Let your care team know once you’ve received your vaccine.
AN UPDATE ON COVID-19 VACCINES
Three COVID-19 vaccines have received emergency authorization by the FDA. Our chief medical officer outlines what you can expect.
Protecting your health as you continue dialysis treatment
We are taking significant steps to reduce the chance of transmission of COVID-19 both in our dialysis centers and for any home visits. To learn how we’re working to keep you safe, please see our policies and procedures both for people on dialysis and for our care teams.
If you’re on in-center dialysis during COVID-19
Staying on track with your in-center dialysis treatments is a very important part of being your healthiest and feeling your best. Find out how you can protect your health while visiting the center, look after your wellbeing, and get tips for adjusting to spending more time at home. Plus, learn about telehealth options and which care team appointments you may be able to have by phone or video conference.
If you're on home dialysis during COVID-19
Continuing your home dialysis treatments during COVID-19 may require you to do a little extra planning, so you can make sure you have everything you need right at home. Learn how you can take steps to stay safe, protect your health, and make sure you're prepared with supplies and food. Plus, find out about your telehealth options. To limit possible exposure to COVID-19, you may be able to have some care team appointments over the phone or by video conference instead of in the center.
4 steps you can take to stay safe
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) advises that people with underlying medical conditions—including people with chronic kidney disease or on dialysis, people with diabetes, and people ages 65 and older—are at high risk for severe illness from COVID-19.
Following these simple steps can limit your exposure to COVID-19 infection:
- Stay home as much as possible
The best way to stay safe is to avoid being around people who are sick with COVID-19 or carrying COVID-19 and not showing any symptoms. If you must go out for dialysis or medical appointments, follow the guidelines for social distancing and stay at least 6 feet away from other people at all times. - Wash your hands often
Use soap and water, and wash for at least 40–60 seconds. If soap isn’t available, use a hand sanitizer that’s at least 60% alcohol.
Proper handwashing technique
Good hand hygiene helps reduce the spread of COVID-19 and prevent infection. Learn how to wash your hands the right way.
- Stock up on medications, food, and supplies
Make sure you have enough medications, kidney-friendly food, and medical supplies to last you 2–4 weeks. It’s best to have these items delivered to your home so you can avoid going out. You can also ask a friend or family member to help you get what you need.
FIND OUT HOW TO GET PREPARED - Get support when you need it
COVID-19 is still very new and we’re all learning how to cope with the changes it’s bringing. If you need help at any time, please reach out to your social worker or another care team member to get the answers or assistance you need. We are here for you!
LEARN HOW YOUR SOCIAL WORKER CAN HELP
TAKE CONTROL OF YOUR HEALTH WITH THE COVID-19 VACCINE!
People on dialysis are at higher risk for COVID-19 complications. A vaccine has been authorized by the FDA—and CDC data suggests it's safe and highly effective. Be prepared to protect yourself, and learn more from the CDC.
KEEP OUR COMMUNITY SAFE
Protect yourself and others by wearing a mask at your dialysis center. The CDC still recommends masks be worn in healthcare settings. It is especially important for people with weakened immune systems, like those on dialysis.
WHAT TO DO IF YOU THINK YOU ARE SICK
Contact your doctor immediately if you feel unwell, have shortness of breath, or have a fever at or above 100.0º F.
REMEMBER TO WASH YOUR HANDS:
- Every time you blow your nose, cough, or sneeze
- After you use the restroom
- Before you eat or prepare food
- After contact with pets
- Before and after caring for another person
How COVID-19 affects people with kidney disease
People on dialysis for kidney disease and people living with health conditions that can contribute to kidney disease, such as high blood pressure and diabetes, need to know that they are at a higher risk for serious illness from COVID-19. While the direct impact of COVID-19 on kidney disease is not fully understood, research suggests there are some complications that people with kidney disease may experience.
TIPS FOR CARE PARTNER SAFETY DURING COVID-19
If you’re caring for someone with kidney disease, it’s important to take extra precautions to reduce the risk of infection for yourself and your loved ones.
Frequent questions about COVID-19 and kidney disease
COVID-19 is still a new disease and information is limited. It’s understandable to have questions like: How does COVID-19 spread? Should I get tested for COVID-19? What should I do if someone in my home gets sick with COVID-19? Fresenius Kidney Care is committed to providing you with the answers during this uncertain time and ensuring the safety of people living with chronic kidney disease.
OUR LATEST PODCAST ON COVID-19 VACCINES
Explore the groundbreaking science behind the emergency approval of the Moderna and Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 vaccines on our Field Notes podcast.
COVID-19 HOME CARE TIPS
Find out how you can cope with mild illness due to COVID-19 and reduce further spread by following these best practices at home.
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COPING WITH STRESS & ANXIETY
It is completely normal to have feelings of anxiety or depression as you work through times of uncertainty and change.