No one is exempt from coronavirus – CMO warns
−Persons with Chronic diseases, immune-compromised are affected
−Large percent of the local population has an underlying health condition
DPI, Guyana, Wednesday, April 15, 2020
Chief Medical Officer of the Ministry of Public Health, Dr. Shamdeo Persaud has warned that no one is exempt from contracting the coronavirus.
Presenting the daily COIVD-19 update, Dr. Persaud said “In Guyana, a large proportion of adults as early as those in their mid-twenties are affected by these conditions and are at high risk for developing the more serious forms of COVID-19 which result in hospitalization, ICU care and even death.”
Chief Medical Officer Dr. Shamdeo Persaud
He said among these health issues are “Chronic lung diseases such as asthma & bronchitis as well as those associated with smoking, high blood pressure, heart diseases, diabetes and high blood sugar.”
Persons with HIV, Cancers on treatment and Lupus are also at risk.
Global studies have indicated that more than half of the world’s population is burdened with chronic or immune-compromised disease due to poor lifestyle choices.
Chief among them include unhealthy diets, lack of exercise and physical activity, constant exposure to cancer-causing emissions, lack of rest and alcohol abuse.
During this period, persons who are most likely to be exposed to the virus must incorporate the COVID-19 prevention guidelines into their daily treatment regimen, to keep their immune system boosted and disease flare-ups at bay with the necessary medication.
Specifically, persons with chronic respiratory illnesses and who are on medication should contact their physician about abnormal or worsening conditions so they can be monitored and receive specific treatment to be administered.
All other persons are required, during this period to take all the precautions including the wearing a face mask, hand washing and sanitizing surroundings and most importantly staying at home once there is no need to be on the road
Less movement of people means a lower number of people becoming infected.