Who Is Most at Risk for Catching COVID?

Coronavirus has affected millions around the world. You might have heard that certain people are at a bigger risk when it comes to coronavirus. There are many different things that can make a person more vulnerable to coronavirus. There are also a few great ways that you can protect these people from potential death. First, we will look at the groups of people who are at biggest risk of catching coronavirus. 

Older Adults 

According to the CDC (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention), those who are ages 85 and older are at the greatest risk when it comes to coronavirus. Any adult above the age of 40 is in more danger from coronavirus than younger adults. Many of these adults required hospitalization, intensive care, or a ventilator to help them breathe. Unfortunately, a large number of people over 65 have passed away due to COVID 19.  8 out of 10 of all COVID 19 deaths in the United States have involved adults who were 65 years or older. 

Nursing Homes 

It is much easier for an older adult to avoid coronavirus when they live on their own or with loved ones. However, in a nursing home, a senior citizen has little chance of not coming into contact with coronavirus. One out of three of coronavirus related deaths in the United States has taken place in a nursing home. It is easy to see how coronavirus could spread in a nursing home. If one nurse comes into contact with coronavirus, they can easily spread it throughout patients during their daily rounds. Many nursing homes are experiencing extreme shortages of PPE, making it harder to keep safe and sanitary. It’s no wonder that Betsy McCaughey, a former lieutenant governor who founded the Committee to Reduce Infection Deaths, refers to nursing homes as “death pits.” 

Individuals With Medical Conditions 

The CDC states that people “of any age with certain underlying medical conditions are at increased risk for severe illness from COVID 19.” These conditions include: 

• Chronic kidney disease 
• Type 2 diabetes 
• Sickle cell disease
• Serious heart conditions
• Obesity 
• Asthma 
• Cystic fibrosis
• Cerebrovascular disease
• High blood pressure
• Dementia
• Liver disease
• Pregnancy 
• Smoking
• Thalassemia
• Pulmonary fibrosis
• Type 1 diabetes 
  

This news might be startling, as you may have not realized just how many people are at risk for COVID-19. Fortunately, there are ways that you can protect others who are more susceptible. 

How To Protect Others From Coronavirus 

If you or a loved one are susceptible to coronavirus, there are ways that you can protect yourselves and others. Washing your hands throughout the day (especially after going out) is vitally important. When you wash your hands, you should spend at least 20 seconds scrubbing your hands with soap and water. If you need to use hand sanitizer, make sure it is 60% alcohol. 

If you have to go out, make sure you maintain six feet from others. Wear a mask at all times when you are in a situation where you could come into contact with COVID-19. Additionally, if you are coming home after being outside around others, you should wash your clothes and take a shower. If you start showing any symptoms of coronavirus 2-14 days after potential exposure, look into getting a COVID test. If you are unsure if you need a COVID test, you should call a medical professional.

COVID Testing In Bay Area 

If you are in the Bay Area and think you need a COVID test, BASS Primary Care offers quick COVID testing. When COVID testing with us, you have the option of being tested from the comfort of your vehicle. If you need to enter our facility for a test, you can rest assured that we have prepared our facility to avoid any unwanted exposure to COVID 19. To book an appointment, call (925) 962-9120 or visit us online.