Among those infected with the virus, older adults with pre-existing heart conditions or hypertension face a sharply higher risk.
In Singapore, nearly one in two confirmed coronavirus patients is aged 50 and above. Out of 178 patients as of 11 March, 41 of them are in their 50s, 30 are in their 60s and 10 are aged 70 and above.
“The elderly, as well as those with chronic medical conditions such as heart and lung disease, have generally been more vulnerable to infections, including other more common bacterial infections and even influenza. This is likely because of their lower immunity and reduced physiological reserves,” said Associate Professor Hsu Li Yang, Programme Leader (Infectious Diseases).
He noted it is plausible that seniors are more likely to become very sick and go to the hospital, and so they are more likely to be diagnosed as confirmed cases than young people who might recover when they stay at home.
The Ministry of Health announced that all social activities for seniors conducted by government agencies will be suspended for two weeks starting 11 March, following the growth of Singapore’s largest cluster linked to a dinner attended by many seniors.
“Mass activities where people mingle closely and for long periods of time — more than half an hour — generally favour the spread of viruses. In this case, the targeted social distancing is aimed at protecting a particular vulnerable segment of the population,” said Assoc Prof Hsu.
Since seniors are at a higher risk than younger people of COVID-19 complications, Assoc Prof Hsu said they should avoid instances where the risk of infection is higher, such as large gatherings in enclosed spaces.
As for children, those infected with the virus appear to have a mild form of COVID-19.
“This appears to be a special characteristic of such coronaviruses and has also been reported in SARS and MERS. Women appear to be less likely to die than men. We do not actually know why, at present,” he added.
Media coverage:
- Coronavirus: Lower immunity likely makes older adults more vulnerable, says expert, The Straits Times (Premium), 11 March 2020
- Seniors more vulnerable likely due to lower immunity: Expert, The Straits Times (Premium), 12 March 2020
- Seniors more vulnerable likely due to lower immunity: Expert, The Straits Times (Print), 12 March 2020