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Are elderly people more at risk from coronavirus?

6th March 2020
Are elderly people more at risk from coronavirus?

Elderly people are just as likely to catch coronavirus than anyone else however, they are at a greater risk of developing much more severe symptoms.

At the moment, it is believed that the mortality rate for the general population is between 1% and 2%, but this rises to 8% for those over 70 and 15% for those in their 80’s. People who have underlying health conditions, such as asthma, diabetes and heart disease, are also more at risk of severe symptoms. 

What are the coronavirus symptoms?

The symptoms of coronavirus are very similar to those you get with a cold or flu and include a cough, a high temperature and shortness of breath. If you develop these symptoms, you may not have the virus at all but to be safe, do not go to your doctor’s surgery and call 111 to get their professional advice on what steps you should take next. 

Currently, there is no specific treatment or cure for coronavirus but there are ways of managing the symptoms. Antibiotics do not work because they are used to treat bacterial infections and are ineffective against viruses. 

How can the elderly protect themselves from coronavirus?

According to government advice and the NHS, the best way anyone can protect themselves from getting coronavirus, and from spreading it on to others, is to frequently wash your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. If you are in one of the more vulnerable age groups, you could perhaps avoid very large gatherings and anyone who has a cold. 

However, you don’t need to avoid all contact with others as experts believe this could lead to you becoming isolated and lonely, a condition that carries even more health risks. If you are told to self-isolate by a medical professional and you need to avoid people altogether, make sure to keep in contact with your friends and family via text messages, phone calls and video chats. 


The experienced carers at Wolfeton Manor always make it their mission to stay ahead of the latest health advice issued by the government and the NHS to ensure all our residents are healthly, safe and happy. To find out more, please don’t hesitate to contact our friendly team today on 01305 262340

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