How the Novel Coronavirus (COVID-19) Affects Different Age Groups—Information for Our Patients in Tampa, FL
In many cases, the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) causes relatively mild symptoms. In fact, it is possible to be infected and recover without even knowing it. However, COVID-19 can sometimes lead to serious health complications, such as difficulty breathing, that require hospitalization and the use of a ventilator.
No one is invulnerable to the effects of the novel coronavirus. Even very young people have fallen gravely ill after becoming infected. However, medical researchers have discovered that elderly adults (age 60 and older) are at heightened risk of developing severe health issues related to COVID-19.
Why the Disparities Among Age Groups?
Older people are more vulnerable to the effects of the novel coronavirus than their younger counterparts for three main reasons. First, the effectiveness of the body’s immune system naturally declines over time. When a relatively young and healthy individual contracts COVID-19, his or her immune system will likely recognize the virus as a foreign invader and immediately begin working to destroy it, thus minimizing the effects of the illness. In contrast, an older person’s immune system is less effective at targeting and destroying harmful viruses, bacteria, and other invaders. Thus, the elderly are more susceptible to infections of any kind, especially a brand-new one like COVID-19.
Second, underlying health issues are common among older populations. When COVID-19 affects an individual who has another health condition—such as diabetes, heart disease, lung disease, or cancer—it can produce more intense symptoms. That’s because chronic illnesses can impair the body’s vital organs, leaving them more susceptible to infection. Additionally, some treatments for these conditions can suppress the immune system.
Finally, many older adults live in nursing homes and assisted living centers. Within these close quarters, a highly infectious disease like the novel coronavirus can spread like wildfire.
Take Proper Precautions Against COVID-19
It is important for everyone—regardless of their age—to take steps to protect themselves and others from COVID-19. These include:
- Frequent and thorough handwashing
- Disinfecting high-touch surfaces and objects
- Avoiding close contact with others (experts recommend maintaining a physical distance of at least 6 feet and wearing a cloth face mask in public places)
A key aspect of social distancing, particularly for those over age 60, is to avoid visiting with grandchildren and other young people who may be unwitting carriers of COVID-19. Even if an individual appears to be perfectly healthy or is exhibiting only mild, flu-like symptoms, he or she could be infected and contagious. While limiting your exposure to others during the COVID-19 pandemic may seem daunting, it is critical to prevent illness and minimize the spread of the disease.
If you have questions about COVID-19 or would like to consult with a medical provider, contact South Tampa Immediate Care or visit our walk-in urgent care center in Tampa, FL. We also invite you to take advantage of our convenient telemedicine services.
