Why is the coronavirus more dangerous for older people? [WE EXPLAIN]
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We must all protect ourselves against infection, but the elderly are primarily at risk. Why is COVID-19 coronavirus more dangerous for seniors? We answer.

COVID-19 Coronavirus – Who Is At Higher Risk?

The elderly are particularly at increased risk of contracting the COVID-19 coronavirus. After the age of 61, the immune system weakens, which makes seniors more likely to struggle with chronic diseases. Those listed by the World Health Organization (WHO) that may encourage the multiplication of the virus include, among others diabetes, ischemic heart disease, lung disease, and asthma.

When there is a risk of infection, it is worth remembering that the elderly are less likely to have a fever, therefore any disturbing symptoms should be monitored so that the elderly receive help as soon as possible.

Also read:

  1. Co-morbidities – what does this mean?
  2. Unusual symptoms of COVID-19 in seniors. They are different than in other adults

Symptoms of the COVID-19 coronavirus in the elderly

Symptoms of the COVID-19 coronavirus in the elderly are also characteristic of patients from other age groups. These include: cough, shortness of breath, as well as the aforementioned fever. There may also be muscle aches, general weakness in the body or a sore throat indicating symptoms of flu or a cold. If they do not go away, go to the nearest infectious diseases ward as soon as possible or call the hotline of the Ministry of Health to find out how to proceed.

  1. Also check: What are the symptoms of the coronavirus disease?

Preventive help for the elderly

Preventive help for seniors takes into account people from their immediate environment, not only their family, but also neighbors who could bring their shopping home or buy an e-prescription. In addition, seniors during the epidemiological threat should not leave their home. It is best to cancel a visit to the doctor by deciding to make a phone call. Avoiding large clusters of people is also one solution.

The most important thing, however, is not to let seniors feel lonely, as this can have a significant impact on their mental health. It is worth maintaining constant telephone contact with him.

What should seniors watch out for?

Not only seniors, but also other people should follow these rules to avoid contracting the COVID-19 coronavirus:

  1. The basic rule is frequent hand washing and hand disinfection with an antibacterial gel;
  2. Avoiding touching your face with your hands;
  3. Minimizing leaving home to a minimum (only to the grocery store, drugstore or pharmacy);
  4. Disinfecting a mobile phone and flat surfaces;
  5. Healthy eating;
  6. Drinking at least 1,5 liters of water daily;
  7. Covering the mouth and nose when coughing and sneezing with a tissue (then thrown into the bin) or the inside of the elbow.

The editorial board recommends the most important articles about the coronavirus:

  1. How to protect seniors from the coronavirus?
  2. A medical phenomenon. Why 90-year-olds are better at COVID-19?
  3. The coronavirus is especially dangerous for seniors. Why?

Have more questions about the coronavirus? See: Coronavirus COVID-19 – the most important questions and answers

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