Individuals who are older or have underlying health conditions face a higher risk of severe illness from COVID-19.
Here's a more detailed breakdown:
Age
- Older Adults (60+ years): The risk of severe illness and death from COVID-19 increases significantly with age. This is due to a natural decline in immune function and an increased likelihood of having underlying health conditions.
Underlying Health Conditions
People with the following conditions are considered at higher risk:
- Lung Diseases: Conditions like chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), asthma, and cystic fibrosis can make individuals more vulnerable to severe COVID-19.
- Heart Conditions: Heart failure, coronary artery disease, and other heart-related ailments can increase the risk of complications from COVID-19.
- Diabetes: Both type 1 and type 2 diabetes can impair immune function and make it harder to fight off the virus.
- Conditions Affecting the Immune System: People with weakened immune systems due to conditions like HIV/AIDS, cancer treatment, or organ transplantation are at a higher risk.
- Other conditions according to the CDC, people with conditions such as obesity, chronic kidney disease, liver disease, sickle cell disease, or are pregnant may also be at increased risk of severe illness from COVID-19. (Although not specifically mentioned in the reference, this information is widely available from reputable sources like the CDC and is important for a comprehensive answer.)
Why are these groups at higher risk?
These groups are at higher risk because:
- Weakened Immune Systems: Age and certain health conditions can weaken the immune system, making it harder to fight off infections.
- Reduced Lung Function: Conditions like COPD and asthma impair lung function, making it harder to breathe and recover from respiratory illnesses.
- Increased Inflammation: Some conditions, such as diabetes and heart disease, are associated with chronic inflammation, which can worsen the effects of COVID-19.
Protecting Those at Risk
It's crucial to take steps to protect those at higher risk, including:
- Vaccination: Getting vaccinated and boosted remains the most effective way to prevent severe illness, hospitalization, and death from COVID-19.
- Wearing Masks: Wearing a high-quality mask in public indoor settings can help reduce the spread of the virus.
- Social Distancing: Maintaining physical distance from others, especially in crowded areas, can help minimize exposure.
- Hand Hygiene: Washing hands frequently with soap and water or using hand sanitizer can help prevent the spread of germs.
- Staying Home When Sick: If you are feeling unwell, stay home to avoid spreading the virus to others.
