IMPLICATIONS OF CONGENITAL HEART DISEASE & COVID – 19

Congenital heart disease is a type of heart abnormality that babies are born with. Although it is not the most common birth defect, it does affect about 1 out of every 2,000 children in India. Congenital heart disease usually shows up during the first year of life and can lead to serious health conditions such as congestive heart failure. Given the increased risk for severe COVID-19 in patients with underlying cardiac disease, there is a concern that patients with congenital heart disease (CHD) may likewise be at increased risk for severe infection, as they are known to have higher risk for complications with viral illnesses including respiratory syncytial virus and influenza.

Your individual level of risk of getting seriously ill from the corona virus depends not just on your congenital condition, but also how severe it is, how well your heart is working, your age, and what other health conditions and risk factors you have. Most children with congenital heart disease don't seem to be at particular risk of becoming seriously ill from coronavirus infection. Children with congenital heart disease are classed as higher risk if their condition is complex (such as Fontan circulation, single ventricle or cyanosis) or if they also have lung disorder or pulmonary hypertension.

If you are at high risk because of your congenital condition, you're advised to strictly abide by safety protocols set for everyone very carefully, including social distancing, maintaining hand hygiene etc. The same instructions apply to everyone with above mentioned heart conditions.

Dr. Nitin Rao

MBBS, MD

Consultant Paediatric Cardiologist

Star Hospitals

For Appointments, Contact: 040 - 4477 7700