In this article we will revisit information for vulnerable groups as there is clear evidence that COVID-19 does not affect all population groups equally. Research into the virus has shown that older age, ethnicity, hygiene quality and geographical area are some examples of groups associated with an increased risk of getting the infection, experiencing more severe symptoms and higher rates of death. In this article we will highlight who some of the vulnerable groups/people are.
Who is ‘vulnerable’ to COVID-19?
The NHS categorise ‘at risk’ groups as High Risk (clinically extremely vulnerable) and Moderate Risk (clinically vulnerable).
The High Risk category groups are those who have had an organ transplant, are having chemotherapy or antibody treatment for cancer, having an intense course of radiotherapy for lung cancer, having targeted cancer treatments that can affect the immune system, have blood or bone marrow cancer, have had a bone marrow or stem cell transplant in the past 6 months, or are still taking immunosuppressant medicine, have been told by a doctor they have a severe lung condition, have a condition that means they have a very high risk of getting infections, are taking medicine that makes them much more likely to get infections, or those who have a serious heart condition and are pregnant as well as adults with Down’s syndrome.
The Moderate Risk category groups are those who are 70 or older, have a lung condition that’s not severe, have heart disease, have diabetes, have chronic kidney disease, have liver disease, have a condition affecting the brain or nerves, have a condition that means they have a high risk of getting infections, are taking medicine that can affect the immune system, are very obese (a BMI of 40 or above) or are pregnant with no underlying health conditions.
It is prudent to remember that these groups may not include everyone who is at higher risk from coronavirus. As we learn more about the virus these lists may alter, so it is worthwhile checking with the NHS, Public Health or World Health Organisation websites for updates.
Is there increased risks for ethnic groups? Whilst age and being male are currently cited as being the main factors in increased risk of COVID-19, its impact is also “disproportionate” for other Asian, Caribbean and black ethnicities. Researchers suggest that the higher risk appears to be partly but not wholly explained by socio-economic factors, but not underlying health conditions, which had previously been identified as a possible cause.
If you would like to read more on this area you may find the following article of interest
If we or someone we know is in one of the vulnerable groups, what steps can we take to safeguard against infection? The advice and restrictions is a lot broader when compared to the first lockdown.
The latest government advice can be found at this link
We will discuss this topic in more detail during the ‘Supportive information for Vulnerable Groups’ webinar on Wednesday 9th December 2020 at 12pm. You can register to join the webinar at
https://attendee.gotowebinar.com/register/4735439761863190288.
If you are unable to attend the live webinar it will be available to watch afterwards, using the same link. If you feel you may need some support, Care first is available 24/7 to provide confidential, impartial support. You can contact Care first 24/7 using the Freephone number provided by your Organisation.