People of all ages can be infected by coronavirus, but it’s older adults and people with a pre-existing medical condition who are most likely to get seriously sick from it. So, if you’re worried about the virus and the risks associated with it, here’s what experts are advising.
According to data collected by the World Health Organization (WHO), people who are over the age of 60 are at a higher risk of developing a severe case of Covid-19. Even with regular influenza, older people tend to have more complications.
A report published in the medical journal JAMA that examined more than 72,000 Chinese coronavirus patients found that the overall fatality rate was 2.3 per cent. But in adults over 80, the fatality rate rose to 15 per cent.
People who have underlying health conditions like asthma, diabetes, high blood pressure, heart disease and lung disease are also more likely to get very sick if they contract the virus.
Professor Robert Booy from the University of Sydney says that vulnerable people should stay away from large crowds.
“Vulnerable people should keep their exposures down to small numbers,” he said. “People with respiratory symptoms should stay home — watch for cough, fever, and shortness of breath. If you are concerned call health direct or your GP.
“If you’re healthy but live with an elderly or chronic illness afflicted relative, don’t go looking for the virus. Many events are cancelling anyway. If you decide to go, keep at least a metre from other fans — smile at them, but no touching or kissing.”
Lung Foundation Australia has recently updated the information pages on its website, advising: “Based on this information and advice from the Department of Health, Lung Foundation Australia does not recommend people who are at a high risk of serious infection gathering together at meetings or participating in group activities at this time.”
Meanwhile, Diabetes Australia says there’s no need for alarm but people with diabetes should be aware that, just like with the flu, “they are at a higher risk of severe symptoms and complications from coronavirus”.
“The Department of Health has advised Diabetes Australia that there are no current shortages or supply issues with insulin, diabetes medicines or NDSS products,” the organisation added. “People with diabetes are advised to order and obtain your diabetes medicines and supplies as usual. There is no need to stockpile.”
Asthma WA recommends that people with asthma take necessary precautions as well. When people with asthma get respiratory infections, it can set off their asthma symptoms.
“People with asthma are no more likely to contract the Coronavirus (COVID-19) than anyone else in the community however the severity of their reaction to the virus may vary depending on their vulnerability.
“For now, it is important to make sure your asthma is well-controlled by having regular reviews with your GP, taking your preventer medication as prescribed and having an Asthma Action Plan in place.”
IMPORTANT LEGAL INFO This article is of a general nature and FYI only, because it doesn’t take into account your personal health requirements or existing medical conditions. That means it’s not personalised health advice and shouldn’t be relied upon as if it is. Before making a health-related decision, you should work out if the info is appropriate for your situation and get professional medical advice.