CPAP and COVID19: Your Questions Answered

If you have Sleep Apnea, you may be worried about CPAP and COVID19. Take a read below for tips and info.

Does having Sleep Apnea make me high risk for COVID19?

There is no evidence linking sleep apnea with coronavirus risk. According to the centre for disease control (CDC), People who have a higher risk for severe illness from the coronavirus include:

  • 65 years of age or older
  • Those with serious underlying medical conditions. 
  • Those who are immuno-compromised
  • Those who have been close contact with another person who has the coronavirus.

What should I do if I have symptoms (should I use my CPAP while sick)?

If you have symptoms of the coronavirus, you should isolate yourself in a separate bedroom and use a separate bathroom, if available. In this “recovery room,” you should continue to use your CPAP while you sleep alone. Evidence suggests that use of CPAP is more likely to produce large droplets (>10 μm) rather than aerosols, and that these are largely confined to within one meter due to their large mass.This suggests that the risk of droplet dispersion as a result of use of CPAP is not a major issue, and is probably no different than any COVID-19 patient in the who is coughing or sneezing without CPAP. 

Any extra cleaning tips?

The centre for disease control (CDC) recommends cleaning and disinfecting your medical equipment according to the manufacturer’s instructions. The directions for CPAP masks and hoses normally include regular cleaning with soap and water.

The CDC also recommends that you clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces in your household. This includes door knobs, light switches and handles. Learn more from the CDC about how to clean and disinfect your household.  

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