The topic at hand is about understanding whether having an ostomy automatically places someone in the "underlying condition" category, making them more at risk for COVID-19. The person asking the question suspects that it might not, but they are seeking current medical opinions on the matter.

Here are some helpful insights and advice:

- The risk status for someone with an ostomy is highly individual and depends on several factors:
1. The reason for the stoma, such as cancer or inflammatory bowel disease (IBD).
2. How long it has been since the surgery, with newer surgeries potentially posing a higher risk.
3. Current medications, especially if they include immunosuppressants or high-dose steroids.
4. The presence of additional conditions like cardiac or respiratory issues, as well as factors like age and gender.

- For those on immunosuppressive therapy:
1. Ostomates with conditions like Crohn’s or Ulcerative Colitis often take medications that weaken the immune system, which could increase their risk.
2. Routine bloodwork, such as a complete blood count (CBC), can help indicate immune status, and discussing these results with a physician is advisable.

- The removal of the colon might reduce certain immune functions, but there is still no definitive medical guidance on this point.

- It's important to refer to local or national guidelines:
1. In the UK, the "clinically extremely vulnerable" list is a reference for patients. This list includes criteria like undergoing chemotherapy, recent transplants, severe lung disease, high-dose steroids or immunosuppressants, and stage-5 kidney disease.
2. Partial organ removal, such as a colectomy, is not specifically listed, so clinicians often make judgments on a case-by-case basis.

- Practical advice for those who are newly post-op or have lung issues (for example, someone who is three months post-ileostomy, on blood thinners, with undiagnosed IBD and intermittent breathing issues):
1. Consider yourself at high risk.
2. At the first sign of COVID-19 symptoms, seek emergency care immediately, as early intervention can improve outcomes.