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The COVID-19 coronavirus is the new coronavirus that was first detected in the Chinese city of Wuhan. The disease may be asymptomatic, mild or severe. There are seniors at risk, so we decided to ask Dr. hab. n. Tomasz Dzieśćtkowski, a virologist from the Medical University of Warsaw, how to strengthen the immunity of the elderly to reduce the risk of coronavirus infection.
According to the findings of the World Health Organization (WHO), the risk of contracting the coronavirus COVID-19 increases with age. In people over 61 years of age, the immune system weakens, which is not able to send an immune response to fight the coronavirus. This knowledge is also derived from research on other coronaviruses (SARS or MERS).
In the risk group, as already mentioned, there are elderly people who have comorbidities:
- diabetes;
- ischemic heart disease;
- asthma;
- lung disease.
People who have cancer are also at higher risk of flu.
- See also: How does cancer affect the course of coronavirus infection?
How to strengthen the immunity of the elderly?
How to strengthen the immunity of the elderly? Dr hab. Tomasz Dzieiątkowski, MD, a virologist from the Medical University of Warsaw, admitted that all theories about strengthening immunity with any dietary supplements or parapharmaceuticals have not been confirmed. The only ways to strengthen immunity in seniors are a healthy lifestyle, as well as hygienic food.
When strengthening immunity, one should also remember about the correct supplementation of vitamin D and the recommended annual preventive vaccinations for seniors.
- Check also: Seniors and the coronavirus. Three questions for the geriatrician
As Dr. hab. n. med. Tomasz Dzieciatkowski, the most important thing is a healthy lifestyle. If a senior has to stay at home, he should ventilate the apartment so that he does not get sick after leaving it. Washing your hands before meals is also advisable, not only for the elderly. In addition, it is worth remembering to eat healthy. However, the immediate family and neighbors should call seniors so that they do not feel lonely.
Check out other information on the coronavirus as well:
- What are the symptoms of the disease caused by the coronavirus?
- Coronavirus in Poland. Where to report when you have symptoms? List of infectious wards
- Early symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease. They can appear as early as forty
Have a question about the coronavirus? Send them to the following address: [email protected]. You will find a daily updated list of answers HERE: Coronavirus – frequently asked questions and answers.