COVID-19: Health Ministry issues advisory for aged people
March 30, 2020  11:42
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Stating that the course of COVID-19 tends to be more severe in the case of the elderly population, resulting in higher mortality, the Union Health 
Ministry has issued a health advisory, listing some "dos" and "don'ts" for reducing the transmission of the virus among the aged section. 


The advisory said globally, COVID-19 has impacted several lives and is steadily increasing its reach. 


While the Indian government has taken stringent actions to contain the spread of COVID-19, including a nationwide lockdown, it is also critical for each one of us to follow the protocols and take necessary measures and precautions to break the chain of transmission of the disease, it added. 


"Elderly people are at a higher risk of COVID-19 infection due to their decreased immunity and body reserves, as well as multiple associated comorbidities like diabetes, hypertension, chronic kidney disease and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. 


"Also, course of disease tends to be more severe in case of elderlies, resulting in higher mortality," the advisory stated. The ministry advised the elderly people to wash their hands and face at regular intervals with soap, stay at home, avoid meeting visitors at home and if such a meeting is essential, maintain a distance of at least one metre. It asked them to ensure proper nutrition through home-cooked, fresh, hot meals, hydrate frequently and take fresh juices to boost immunity. 


The "dos" also include exercising, taking the daily prescribed medicines regularly, postponing elective surgeries (if any) like cataract surgery or total knee replacement and cleaning frequently-touched surfaces with a disinfectant. "
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