The novel coronavirus is a unique virus with rare characteristics. Whereas some people can recover from the illness without needing special treatment, in other cases, the disease can be severe and even fatal. Because of its newness, there’s still a lot that researchers haven’t discovered about the virus, however, what is clear is that some health conditions are prone to making someone be at a higher risk of getting the virus. Dr Kenneth Ruzindana says COVID-19 is a new disease and there is limited information regarding its risk factors, but based on current information and clinical expertise; older adults (those who are over the age of 60) are at a higher risk of developing a severe case of COVID-19. This is because older adults have an immune system that is not as strong as younger people’s, and also have increased inflammation that could promote viral replication and more prolonged responses to inflammation, causing lasting damage to the heart, brain and other organs, medics point out. That is why it is recommended that they strictly stay away from crowds and avoid unnecessary travel. However, people of any age, especially those with serious underlying medical conditions, may also be at high risk for severe illness from coronavirus, according to Ruzindana. “Based on the available information to date, those that have a high risk for severe illness from the virus include people who are aged 65 years and older, other high risk people include those with chronic lung diseases or moderate to severe asthma and people who have serious heart conditions,” he says. It is also observed that patients who are on cancer treatment are prone to getting the virus. Ruzindana, on the other hand, highlights that many conditions can cause a person to have decreased immunity or immune compromise, “ Here I can mention people who smoke, patients with immune deficiencies like poorly controlled HIV or AIDS, and patients who are under prolonged use of corticosteroids and other immune weakening medication.” He also says it is important to note that people of any age with severe obesity, which is with the body mass index above 40, have a high risk of getting coronavirus. Certain underlying medical conditions, particularly if they are not well controlled, such as those with diabetes, kidney disease or renal disease or liver disease may also be at risk, the medic notes. “I should add as well that people who are pregnant should be monitored since they are known to be at particularly high risk with severe viral or any viral illnesses,” he adds. Everyone else It is important to note that people who are young or healthy also have chances of contracting the virus. And even though some may have strong immune systems that would give them protection from getting severely ill, chances are that they might come into contact with people who are more at risk and pass the virus to them. That’s why the Ministry of Health has been so vigilant about encouraging all people to stay at home. What is important is prevention, and the best way to slow the spread of a disease like COVID-19 is minimising the number of people who can be infected. How to lower risk of COVID-19 The Ministry of Health has been clear on the measures one can take to stay safe at such a time. These include strategies such as avoiding large public gatherings, staying home and avoiding anyone who appears ill. Social distancing can be of great help in avoiding infection and transmission of the virus. It has also been advised to avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth. Stay home and most importantly maintain personal hygiene by thoroughly washing hands regularly with soap and hand sanitisers. When coughing or sneezing, it is recommended to cover with a tissue, and immediately throw the tissue in the trash. Cleaning and disinfecting frequently touched items and surfaces at home is advised too. This can be done using regular household cleaning sprays or wipes.
