Centres for Disease Control & Prevention (CDC) has updated the list of who is at increased risk for getting severely ill from COVID-19

Seniors and  individuals with underlying medical conditions continue to stay at risk, however now CDC has additionally characterized age-and condition-related dangers.

Age Related Risk 

  • The specific age threshold from the older adult classification has now been removed 
  • The risk of illness increases rapidly as you age , but is now not just limited to those over 65 years of age 
  • Older adults with underlying medical conditions are at a greater risk of being being severely ill from COVID-19 

Underlying Medical Conditions Related Risk

 CDC has updated the list of those with underlying medical conditions  who are at a greater risk of getting severely ill from COVID-19 after the review of reports and studies .  The more underlying medical conditions people have, the higher their risk.

  • Chronic kidney disease
  • COPD (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease)
  • Obesity (BMI of 30 or higher)
  • Immunocompromised state (weakened immune system) from solid organ transplant
  • Serious heart conditions, such as heart failure, coronary artery disease, or cardiomyopathies
  • Sickle cell disease
  • Type 2 diabetes

Understanding who is most at risk for severe illness helps people make the best decisions for themselves, their families, and their communities,” said CDC Director Robert Redfield MD. “While we are all at risk for COVID-19, we need to be aware of who is susceptible to severe complications so that we take appropriate measures to protect their health and well-being.

CDC  has also explained  the list of other conditions that might increase a person’s risk of severe illness

This list includes additions like

  • Asthma
  • High blood pressure
  • Neurologic conditions such as dementia
  • Cerebrovascular disease such as stroke
  • Pregnancy ( however since pregnant women are more likely to be hospitalised and receive timely medical attention they are not at greater risk for death from COVID-19)

COVOD-19 is spreading rapidly and it is imperative that we protect ourselves, our loved ones and our community 

  • Limit contact with and disinfect commonly touched surfaces or shared items
  •  Washing your hands frequently
  • Focusing on activities where social distancing can be maintained
  • Wear a cloth mask whenever you step out 

 

This information is based on the Press Release by CDC published on 25th June 2020