SARS-CoV-2 that causes the Coronavirus Disease spreads via respiratory droplets made from an infected person’s sneezes and coughs. The virus can be stable for hours on different surfaces. Surgical masks are very helpful in protecting one’s self and preventing the infected from spreading the virus to others.
Vulnerable Groups
- Age
As of the latest reports, a majority of deaths from the first outbreak in the country of China were among adults aged 60 and above. As people age, the immune system of the body starts to weaken. This results in a decrease in their white blood cell count. With these cells, it also becomes more ineffective at identifying new pathogens. Studies have shown that after reaching 70, there is a steep decline in immune functions. This makes the elderly more likely to suffer from the infection and develops related complications. Moreover, the COVID-19 exhibits behavior of damaging immune cells that could overcome the virus. Wherein, it makes the immune system of the elderly more susceptible to it.
- Underlying Medical Conditions
People with underlying medical conditions are faced with the threat of developing a severe case of complications from the virus. Conditions that might put you at high-risk are lung disease, serious heart conditions, and moderate to severe asthma, severe obesity, and hypertension.
- Compromised Immune System
People who are immunocompromised have a decreased capability to fight off and recover from infections. It also increases their risk of contracting COVID-19 and develops more severe symptoms.
- Pregnancy
The changes in the body of a pregnant woman can put them at higher risk for other infections. Viruses like coronavirus and other viral respiratory infections pose a higher risk of developing into more severe forms in pregnant women that might as well affect the baby.
How To Protect Vulnerable Groups
- Not To Come In Close Contact With Ill People
An individual who is diagnosed to be positive with COVID-19 and those close to them may quickly spread to the virus to others. Avoiding people who are sick helps protect high-risk people.
- Make Sure To Always Have Clean Hands
Frequent washing of hands is one of the most effective ways to prevent having COVID-19. Washing of hands must be at least 20 seconds using water and soap. You can also have a hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol on hand.
- Avoid Touching The Face And Commonly Touched Surfaces In Public Areas
The virus can effortlessly enter the body through the mouth, eyes, or nose. If needed, you must first need to make sure that your hands are clean, and if not you can use a tissue to touch the specific area. Also, commonly touched surfaces are understandably filled with bacteria and germs. If you are about to touch any specific surfaces or objects, you can cover it using a tissue.
- Respiratory Hygiene
A person who lives with someone who belongs to a vulnerable group must be extra cautious. When coughing or sneezing, cover your nose and mouth with a clean tissue and throw it right away in an appropriate place. You may also use the inside of your elbow if tissue is not available.
- Healthy Habits
The cure for COVID-19 is unknown yet. It is best to maintain a healthy lifestyle these days to keep up the natural disease-fighting abilities of the body. Individuals who belong to vulnerable groups must focus on eating a well-balanced diet, getting enough sleep, and managing stress levels.
