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The BK virus is a virus that mainly infects the kidneys and urinary tract. Most people get infected with the BK virus sometime during their life.

Infection with the BK virus rarely causes symptoms, except in people who have a weakened immune system. Most of the problems from the BK virus are seen in people who have had an organ transplant. People who have transplanted organs must take medicines to prevent their bodies from rejecting the organs they receive. These medicines also lower their ability to fight infection. In these people, a BK virus infection can damage the kidneys.

Current as of: April 30, 2024

Author: Ignite Healthwise, LLC Staff

Clinical Review Board
All Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.

Current as of: April 30, 2024

Author: Ignite Healthwise, LLC Staff

Clinical Review Board
All Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.

The Health Encyclopedia contains general health information. Not all treatments or services described are covered benefits for Kaiser Permanente members or offered as services by Kaiser Permanente. For a list of covered benefits, please refer to your Evidence of Coverage or Summary Plan Description. For recommended treatments, please consult with your health care provider.