In a recent study by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) highlighted that individuals undergoing maintenance dialysis are facing an elevated risk of contracting SARS-CoV-2 and experiencing severe outcomes, including death, due to COVID-19. The study sheds light on the prevalence of SARS-CoV-2 infections and COVID-19-related deaths within this vulnerable population.
The CDC's National Healthcare Safety Network (NHSN) has been diligently collecting data since November 2020 to track the incidence of SARS-CoV-2 infections and COVID-19-related deaths among maintenance dialysis patients. The study analyzed the data reported between June 30, 2021, and September 27, 2022, providing crucial insights into the rates of infection and mortality within this group.

According to the analysis, the overall infection rate stood at 30.47 per 10,000 patient-weeks. It was further revealed that the infection rate was notably higher among unvaccinated patients, reaching 39.64 per 10,000 patient-weeks. Patients who had completed a primary COVID-19 vaccination series demonstrated a relatively lower infection rate of 27.24 per 10,000 patient-weeks.
The study also focused on the COVID-19–related death rate, which was found to be 1.74 per 10,000 patient-weeks among maintenance dialysis patients. These statistics underscore the urgency of implementing rigorous infection control measures within dialysis facilities. Moreover, the study highlights the importance of ensuring that both patients and staff members are up-to-date with the recommended COVID-19 vaccinations.
"These individuals have compromised immune systems due to their existing health conditions, making them more susceptible to the virus. It is imperative that we prioritize their safety by adhering to strict infection control protocols and promoting vaccination," said Dr. Martinez.
Reference:
Navarrete, J., Barone, G., Qureshi, I., Woods, A., Barbre, K., Meng, L., Novosad, S., Li, Q., Soe, M. M., Edwards, J., Wong, E., Keenan, J., Lamping, L., Park, M., Dumbuya, S., Benin, A. L., & Bell, J. (2023). SARS-CoV-2 Infection and Death Rates Among Maintenance Dialysis Patients During Delta and Early Omicron Waves — United States, June 30, 2021–September 27, 2022. In MMWR. Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report (Vol. 72, Issue 32, pp. 871–876). Centers for Disease Control MMWR Office. https://doi.org/10.15585/mmwr.mm7232a4