Coronavirus

COVID-19: Advice for transplant patients

We understand that this is a very worrying time for those awaiting or having an organ transplant. The safety of organ donation and transplantation is our priority.

Every potential organ donor is being tested for coronavirus and if someone has died from coronavirus they will not be able to donate.

There is no known transmission of coronavirus through organ donation in the UK. However, as patients who need a transplant have to be immunosuppressed, any risks need to be minimised as much as possible.

Coronavirus and organ transplantation

Frequently asked questions

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Does the COVID-19 vaccine affect organ donation and transplantation?

You can receive a transplant whether you have had the Covid-19 vaccination or not, as long as you are eligible. Being on the active waiting-list for a transplant is dependent, not on vaccination status, but a range of clinical factors.

When it comes to donation, you can also be an organ donor regardless of whether you have received the vaccine.

We would always advise people to have the vaccination if possible, as it gives people the best chance of protection against the most severe consequences of Covid.

How is organ donation and transplantation affected?

Is it safe to have an organ transplant at the moment?

There is no known transmission of coronavirus (COVID-19) through organ donation in the UK.

Every potential organ donor is being tested for COVID-19. If someone has died of COVID-19 they will not be able to donate.

All potential recipients will also be tested when they are admitted for a possible transplant.

However, patients who need a transplant have significant health problems, are going through major surgery, and are immunosuppressed. Therefore, the risk of contracting COVID-19 in hospital must be balanced against the benefits of the transplant. When this is truly lifesaving, then the balance is easier to call for clinicians and patients alike.

What is the guidance for vaccines?

Everyone who is offered vaccination is encouraged to accept it to protect themselves and others.

Useful information includes:

Is there a risk of coronavirus being passed on through organ donation?

Who can I contact about my transplant?

More information

1. Follow the latest advice from Public Health England and the Department of Health and Social Care

2. Read our joint statement with the British Transplant Society on COVID-19 vaccination for transplant recipients and patients waiting for a transplant.

3. Contact your transplant centre if you have questions about an upcoming transplant or need advice

4. Find out more about coronavirus vaccine - access vaccine questions and answers for clinicians and patients

5. Find out about screening and assessment for coronavirus Read our policy on assessment and screening in organ donors and recipients

6. Information on what may be the best ways to protect ourselves against COVID-19 Study visualising expert estimates of COVID-19 transmission