The CDC reports that while individuals of all ages can contract the novel coronavirus, older individuals (60 years and older) and individuals with serious chronic medical conditions such as diabetes, heart disease and lung disease are at a higher risk of getting very sick from this illness. Other high-risk conditions include hypertension and cancer.
Data from China showed that even though 3% of cases were in patients 80 years and older, the death rate was 14.8%. Death occurred in 8% of those between 70 and 79 years old. The rate is under 1% in individuals under the age of 50.
If you fall into one of these high-risk categories, there are a few things you can do to protect yourself:
Stay home
Stay home as much as possible to reduce your risk of being exposed. If you do venture out, avoid crowds especially in poorly ventilated spaces. Stay at least 6 feet away from others. According to the CDC, you should also avoid non-essential air travel, and now is not the time to take the cruise.
Take everyday precautions
Avoid touching your face and wash your hands with soap and water for 20 seconds or use hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol content. The virus can survive on surfaces, so avoid touching high-touch areas in public places such as elevators, door handles and light switches. Use a tissue or your sleeve to cover your hand if you must touch, and once again, wash your hands!
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Cancel nonurgent appointments
Cancel all routine, non-urgent doctor’s appointments. Many hospitals have already cancelled elective surgeries. If the visit can wait, it should. If you must absolutely keep your appointment, check to see if your doctor can do this via telehealth technology.
Have a supply of your medications
Ask your doctor if you could switch to a 90-day supply of your medications in case you have to stay home for a prolonged period. Make sure loved ones know what medications you’re on as well as any supplies such as oxygen, dialysis or wound care. Determine who will take care of you if you become ill.
Stock up on the essentials
Stock up on toiletries, household items and nonperishable foods so you can minimize trips to the grocery store. You can even make meals and freeze them. Be sure to also stock up on over the counter medicines such as fever relivers and medical supplies such as tissues.
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Stay connected
Staying home for prolonged periods can lead to feelings of isolation and even depression. To combat this stay in touch with your family and friends by phone or email. This can give you a sense of community and connectedness. Keep them updated on how you’re doing as you may need to ask them for help if you become sick.
Dr. Kelly N. Wood, MD is an internal medicine physician, board-certified in Endocrinology, Diabetes, and Metabolism. Dr. Kelly is currently in clinical practice in Atlanta, Georgia.
Through a multi-dimensional platform that addresses the mind, body, and spirit, Dr. Kelly lives out her passion to help others achieve total wellness and lead a balanced life. She makes expert health and wellness advice accessible to all through speaking engagements, media appearances, her Facebook show, and personal blog (drkellywoodmd.com).
Beyond the stethoscope, Dr. Kelly is recognized as “The Bounce Back Coach,” helping high-performing women to bounce back from failed relationships rebuild their self-esteem and reclaim their identity. Her debut book, “Bounce Back to Better: Recovering from the Disappointment of a Failed Relationship,” walks readers through her personal journey of reconstructing her life after her engagement ended.
Please connect with Dr. Kelly at [email protected]
