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Are there specific risks associated with coronavirus (COVID-19) for people with hereditary haemochromatosis?

We are unaware of any specific studies or research published focusing on haemochromatosis and coronavirus. At this point there is no specific evidence to suggest an increased risk in people with hereditary haemochromatosis of contracting coronavirus (COVID-19).

I have an appointment for a venesection, test or consultation with my GP or specialist. Should I go?

Yes, unless you have symptoms of coronavirus or you have been told to self-isolate or you have been specifically instructed by medical or a government authority not to attend.

I’ve been unable to attend venesection as usual, will that be a problem?

There may be various reasons why you are unable or unwilling to attend a venesection. These could include your own ill-health with coronavirus, self-isolation resulting from a close relative’s infection or specific government or health authority advice. If you have coronavirus (COVID-19) or are self-isolating, venesection is not a priority. Delaying a venesection by a few weeks or months will generally not have any lasting implications for your health, especially if your Serum Ferritin (SF) does not exceed the reference range.

While there is some variation in reporting “normal” reference ranges between pathology laboratories, and for males and females, the upper level in Australia would usually be 400 µg/L.

For anyone with coronavirus the priority will be to recover from the coronavirus and/or prevent infecting others. For others the priority may be to reduce the risk of contracting coronavirus themselves, by minimising the need to leave their home.

Anybody who has any doubt about the appropriate action for themselves should phone their doctor. This particularly applies to anyone who has been newly diagnosed and/or has a Ferritin level exceeding the reference range.

If you have specific questions after reading this information, you can call our InfoLine 1300 019 028 during business hours.

Coronavirus (COVID-19) Vaccine

We have received enquiries from people with hereditary haemochromatosis (HH) asking whether the current Coronavirus (COVID-19) vaccines are safe for people with HH.

If you have concerns about the vaccine you should speak with your doctor.

All vaccines available in Australia are rigorously tested and provisionally approved by the Therapeutic Goods Administration in Australia.

Although there have not as yet been any specific medical trials focussed on Covid-19 vaccines in people with HH, there is no evidence that indicates any higher risk to people with haemochromatosis than the general population.

Anyone who receives the vaccine is required to avoid venesection for 7 days after the jab – this is a requirement of the Australian Red Cross Lifeblood service.

People commonly experience a headache immediately after receiving vaccination, so it may be advisable to avoid being venesected in the days before a vaccination and ensure that on the day of vaccination you are well hydrated (drink lots of water).