Certain people are at a higher risk of getting very sick from the 2019 Novel Coronavirus (COVID-19), including older adults and people with chronic medical conditions.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, those at high-risk for severe illness from COVID-19 include:
- People aged 65 years and older
- People who live in a nursing home or long-term care facility
- People with chronic lung disease or moderate to severe asthma
- People who have serious heart conditions
- People who are immunocompromised, including patients who are being treated for cancer
- People of any age with severe obesity (Body Mass Index of 40 or higher)
- People of any age with certain underlying medical conditions, particularly if not well-controlled, such as those with diabetes, renal failure, or liver disease
- People who are pregnant should be monitored since they are known to be at risk with severe viral illness, though to date, data on COVID-19 has not shown increased risk
This is an evolving situation, and we encourage you to check back with the CDC regularly for updates.
If I am a high-risk individual, how should I protect myself?
In order to reduce your risk of exposure to COVID-19, we recommend taking the following precautions:
- Practice social distancing and remain in your home
- Consider working from home, if you are able
- Arrange to have your groceries delivered
- Stock up on necessities, including medicine
- Avoid crowds as much as you can
- Keep away from others who are sick
- Wash your hands frequently
READ MORE: Coronavirus: What you need to know
