COVID-19 and Lupus Essential Updates

During the COVID-19 pandemic, MyLupusTeam will provide summaries and links to articles of importance to people living with lupus. This page will be updated with information as it becomes available.

• Join the conversation about COVID-19 and lupus by commenting below.

How to Cope with the Hydroxychloroquine (Plaquenil) Shortage

MyLupusTeam, April 15, 2020

Key Takeaways

• Hydroxychloroquine, sold under the brand name Plaquenil, is being investigated for use in COVID-19 cases.
• Because of increased demand, some people with lupus are having problems accessing their medication.
• If you have trouble getting hydroxychloroquine, talk to your doctor. They can likely help you fill your prescription.
• Do not ration or stop taking any medication without talking to your doctor first.

What MyLupusTeam Members Are Saying

"Is anyone else worried about the shortage of Plaquenil?"

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Go Deeper

Lupus and Hydroxychloroquine (Plaquenil) Shortages

COVID-19 and Lupus: Are You at a Greater Risk?

MyLupusTeam, April 7, 2020

Key Takeaways

• If you have lupus and are treating it with medications, you may be at higher risk for infection generally.
• The benefits of keeping your lupus symptoms under control with medication likely outweigh the potential added risk of infection.
• If your condition is under control, people with lupus aren’t more susceptible to worse outcomes than the rest of the population.

What MyLupusTeam Members Are Saying

"I have a doctor’s appointment in a hospital. Do I skip it or go?"

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Lupus and COVID-19: Are You At a Greater Risk?

How to Talk to Friends and Family About Physical Distancing

MyLupusTeam, March 20, 2020

Key Takeaways

• Remind loved ones of the seriousness of your situation. According to research in China, people who had one additional disease had a 79 percent higher risk of requiring intensive care, needing a respirator, or dying as a result of COVID-19.
• If there are others in your circle who take the threat seriously, ask them to talk to your loved one on your behalf.
• Suggest ways to stay socially connected from a safe distance.

What MyLupusTeam Members Are Saying

"Please take all precautions. The world likes having you here."

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Go Deeper

Canceling Is Kindness: Keeping Safe From COVID-19 With Lupus

Other COVID-19 Resources

• Lupus Research Alliance: COVID-19 Updates
• Lupus Foundation of America: Coronavirus and Lupus
• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC): Situation Summary
• World Health Organization (WHO): Rolling Updates of Coronavirus