“Can a low red blood cell count be a risk factor for Covid-19?”

Yes, anemia is both common and independently associated with poor outcome in respiratory infections, including but not limited to COVID-19. Anemia should be considered as an independent prognostic risk factor for COVID-19. Thank you.

It is not a proven fact whether anemia increases the risk of getting COVID or not. But, until proven otherwise, I would assume it(or some underlying issue leading to the anemia) does increase your risk and thus you must do everything you can to AVOID OTHER PEOPLE who could transmit it to you.

If it is a chronic condition, you may be at increased risk, so follow the published guidelines closely.

RB Thomas,MD

If the red blood count is low enough to cause you fatigue, it could possibly be a risk factor for COVID19

COVID-19 Research: Findings from a new study released by Chinese researchers , Dr Wenzhong Liu from Sichuan University and Dr Hualan Li from Yibin University has revealed that the Sars-CoV-2 coronavirus attacks hemoglobin in the the red blood cells through a series of cellular actions, that ultimately renders the red blood cells incapable of transporting oxygen. However depending of the cause of your anemia, this makes you at higher risk for being symptomatic during the infection. Conversely it doesn’t means that a low red cell count is a risk factor for COVID-19 vs a normal red cell count patients