What to Know About Polycythemia Vera and COVID-19

Polycythemia vera is a rare type of blood cancer in which the bone marrow makes too many blood cells, particularly red blood cells. The condition is most common in males over the age of 60. Having polycythemia vera increases the risk of blood clots and can have potentially fatal complications like stroke. 

Early statistics suggested that people with polycythemia vera were at a higher risk of dying from COVID-19, but more recent research suggests otherwise. However, it’s important to remember that research on the effects of COVID-19 and how it affects people with certain conditions is still being conducted.

Here's what you should know about polycythemia vera and COVID-19.

Polycythemia Vera and COVID-19 Risk

There is no definitive research evidence showing that people with polycythemia vera are at an increased risk of getting COVID-19. However, people who are being treated for the condition at a clinic or hospital may wonder whether it’s safe for them to go to their regular phlebotomy appointments.

Experts recommend that people with polycythemia vera do not skip appointments if they require phlebotomy treatments to control the condition.

Some people might be able to transition to telehealth appointments if they are stable and if there’s a high rate of COVID infection in their community.

Complications of Polycythemia Vera and COVID-19

Research suggests that people with blood cancers may have an elevated risk of dying from COVID-19. The increased risk makes sense because those with cancer are likely to have compromised immune systems.

Experts do not have enough information to say for sure whether there is a link between polycythemia vera and increased COVID-19 mortality. It’s possible that people with polycythemia vera that has progressed to myelofibrosis may have a higher risk of COVID-19 complications. 

There are reports that people with COVID-19 have experienced blood clots. People with blood disorders, like polycythemia vera, are already at higher risk for blood clots. Therefore, having both conditions at the same time may further increase their risk. However, more research is needed to understand a possible link.

Polycythemia Vera Treatments and COVID-19

Experts say that people with polycythemia vera should keep up with their treatments—even if a person tests positive for COVID-19. Abruptly stopping treatments for polycythemia vera is more likely to cause adverse effects than it is to raise a person's risk of contracting COVID-19 or experiencing complications from the virus.

COVID Treatment and Drug Interactions

The only reason to stop polycythemia vera treatment is if a person gets COVID-19 and needs a treatment that would cause a drug interaction. If there’s any worry of drug interaction, such as with ruxolitinib, experts recommend lowering the dose rather than stopping the treatment abruptly.

How to Stay Safe

It may feel scary to continue going to treatment appointments and doctor’s visits throughout the pandemic. However, keep in mind that many hospitals and other health institutions are taking important precautions to keep staff and patients safe.

You can protect yourself by:

• Frequently washing your hands
• Wearing a face mask indoors 
• Physically distancing from others
• Staying up-to-date with COVID-19 primary series vaccines and boosters

A Word From Verywell

Emerging research suggests that people with polycythemia vera are not at a higher risk for COVID-19 infection or complications. It's also safe, and recommended, for them to get a COVID vaccine.

If you have concerns about your appointments or do not know how to fit a COVID vaccine into your treatment schedule, talk to your provider. They can explain what they are doing to keep staff and patients safe, or might allow you to use telehealth appointments.

The information in this article is current as of the date listed. As new research becomes available, we’ll update this article. For the latest on COVID-19, visit our coronavirus news page.