Mask for CF

Cystic Fibrosis (CF) is a serious, life-threatening genetic disease that affects the water balance of cells throughout the body, resulting in abnormalities in the respiratory, digestive, and reproductive system. Inherited mutations of the CF gene affect the transfer of salts into and out of cells that line the organs of these three systems. Although often associated with chronic lung disease that may require lung transplantation, the abnormally thick mucus produced by these cells can also hinder the function of the pancreas, intestines, and other organs, and can result in wide range of conditions, including malnutrition, diabetes, and reproductive sterility.

CF patients rely on an aggressive daily regimen of physical therapies and medications to reduce life- threatening respiratory infections and treat CF symptoms. These interventions seek to prevent and reduce infection, as well as to support a healthy immune system to combat the consequences of infections. On-going and episodic infections are the largest concern for CF patient survival, because the chronic inflammation causes fibrous scarring of organs like the lungs, which prevents their normal expansion, movement, and function, which then can have dire consequences.

The most common symptoms of COVID-19 include fever, dry cough, and shortness of breath. Other possible symptoms may include nasal congestion, body aches, tiredness, and loss of taste or smell.

Cystic Fibrosis may cause coughing, but be sure to watch for changes in coughing or a worsening cough. If the cough is drier or different than usual, or if it is accompanied by a fever, contact your medical team.

According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), people with Cystic Fibrosis (CF) are among those who might be at an increased risk for severe illness from COVID-19. To limit potential exposure, people living with CF should:

• Stay at home as much as possible.

• Keep trips outside your home to a minimum.

• If possible, work or study from home.

• Avoid travel via airline or cruise ship.

Studies have shown that those infected with COVID-19 shed the virus before their symptoms reach their peak, so one can infect others without realizing one is infected. Each of us wearing a mask limits the dose of COVID-19 virus in our immediate area, which decreases the chance of COVID-19 occurring in our general population. This in turn protects all people, but particularly those with ongoing or underlying respiratory illnesses, including those with CF.

1. Wear a mask when out in public.

2. Contact Mask4CF@gmail.com to request a Mask4CF.org Ear-Saver (supplies limited), or download the CAD file for your own use.

3. Pass the word to others to help protect those living with CF, or any condition that creates a higher risk with COVID-19.