The Effects of SARS-CoV-2 on Transplant Patients

The COVID-19 pandemic has had a profound effect on the entire human race. It is easy to look over the fact that people with certain health challenges are more severely impacted than others. While a significant amount of research explains how COVID-19 affects the general population and how to prevent infection among these individuals, there has been a lack of information relating to the effects of the SARS-CoV-2 virus on the smaller population of transplant patients. Specifically, what is the pathogenesis of the SARS-CoV-2 virus in these patients, and do the COVID-19 vaccines protect these people from infection? This study will attempt to uncover the answers to these questions by utilizing current peer-reviewed research done on transplant patients with and without COVID-19. In addition, an interview will be conducted with a healthcare provider who cares for transplant patients. This research will provide a critical evaluation of the existing research to identify any gaps in the current understanding of this topic. This will also provide healthcare providers with useful information on how to manage SARS-CoV-2 infection in transplant patients.