There are certain high-risk groups that are more vulnerable when it comes to the latest coronavirus (COVID-19). So Coronavirus- Who’s the most vulnerable?
The elderly
People over the age of 80 years who contract the virus have a 14.8% chance of dying from the disease. This is according to a large epidemiological study of 72,000 cases in China. With around one in six Australian (16%) over the age of 65 years, the coronavirus is a concern for anyone over 60. Amongst the 1,023 deaths, in China, a majority have been over 60 years of age and/or have had pre-existing conditions.
Others considered high-risk
The Chinese Centre for Disease Control and Prevention study outlined a number of high-risk groups that had a higher number of fatalities reported. For context, patients who reported otherwise healthy had a fatality rate of 0.9%. While, patients with other conditions had a higher fatality rate- 10.5% for those with cardiovascular disease, 7.3% for diabetes, 6.3% for chronic respiratory disease, 6.0% for hypertension and 5.6% for cancer sufferers.
Prevention
There are steps that all Australians can take to help stop the spread of the coronavirus.
- Washing hands- regularly and thoroughly clean your hands with an alcohol-based hand rub or wash them with soap and water
- Maintain social distancing- keep one metre between yourself and anyone who is coughing or sneezing
- Avoid touching eyes, nose and mouth- viruses can be transferred from surfaces to your mouth which can enter your body and make you sick
- Practice respiratory hygiene- cover your mouth and nose with your bent elbow or tissue when you cough or sneeze
- If your have a fever, cough or difficulty breathing, seek medical care
- Stay informed and follow advice given by your healthcare provider.
For healthcare workers or people near high-risk groups
To prevent high-risk patients from contracting the disease, follow these guidelines.
If you are feeling unwell, even with mild symptoms such as a headache and slight runny nose, stay at home until you recover. This will allow facilities to operate more effectively and help protect you and others from contracting coronavirus.
If you develop a fever, cough or have difficulty breathing, seek medical advice as soon as possible. Calling in advance will allow your health care provider to quickly direct you to the right health facility. This will also help to prevent the possible spread of coronavirus or other viruses.
13 Doctor’s are onboard to support local GPs to help manage community concern, especially from those in high-risk categories.