A report in the Mayo Clinic News Network said the people most at risk from the COVID-19 virus are older people and those who already have previous existing medical conditions including heart and lung issues.
Symptoms of the virus can vary widely from no symptoms of illness at all, to life-threatening shortness of breath and the need for hospitalization, the report concluded.
Other medical conditions that make the virus a serious threat are obesity, weakened immune systems and people with diabetes. These conditions reduce the body’s ability to fight off infections.
The coronavirus is most dangerous to middle-aged to elderly people with about 80% of deaths among those 65 years old or older. Nursing home residents are particularly at risk because they live close together with others, are older, and often already have pre-existing medical conditions.
The report said those particularly susceptible to coronavirus are elderly people with lung conditions such as heart disease, lung cancer, pulmonary disease, cystic fibrosis or asthma.
Medical patients who have undergone surgical procedures such as organ or bone marrow transplants or those who suffer from HIV (AIDS) are at high risk, also those who have liver or kidney disease.
The report recommended that people who have medical conditions placing them at greater risk from COVID-19 develop a plan for prevention and stay in close contact with their doctors.
“Take all your medications as prescribed. Consider developing a care plan that includes information about your medical conditions, medications, doctors' names and emergency contacts,” the Mayo Clinic report advised.
The report added that people should take the normal precautions during the pandemic, wearing face masks, washing hands frequently, staying at home when possible, using tissue to smother a sneeze, and avoiding as much as possible touching the eyes, nose and mouth.
Anyone feeling ill should contact their doctor.
Information on Mayo Clinic services can be accessed at mayoclinic.org.
