by Dr. Doug Johnson, member of our Re-Opening Task Force
As you may know, Mayor Cooper has extended Nashville’s “safer-at-home” order until May 8. However, many surrounding areas are beginning to open up, leaving some to wonder is it safe for me to venture out more? In order to protect yourself and your family, it is good to know who may be at a higher risk.
You may be at high risk for complications from coronavirus infection if you are:
- Over 65 years of age
- Live in a long-term care facility or nursing home
- Have any of the following medical problems, particularly if they are not well controlled:
- Serious heart conditions, including high blood pressure
- Lung problems, including asthma, emphysema, or COPD
- Diabetes
- Kidney problems (chronic kidney disease)
- Liver disease
- Compromised immune system (for example, people getting cancer treatment, people with organ transplant, people with HIV/AIDS, people with long-term use of steroids or other medicine that suppresses the immune system)
It is also important to note that more than one of these risk factors add up. For example, someone who is 85 years old with severe heart and lung disease is at much higher risk than someone who is 65 and has high blood pressure that is well-controlled with medication.
For more information visit. https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/need-extra-precautions/people-at-higher-risk.html