Underlying Medical Conditions That Increase Risk of Serious COVID-19 Illness for All Ages

Ian C. Langtree - Writer/Editor for Disabled World (DW)
Published: 2020/03/13 - Updated: 2021/08/23
Topic: Disability Emergency Planning - Publications List

Page Content: Synopsis - Introduction - Main

Synopsis: List of medical conditions and factors that can place a person diagnosed with the novel coronavirus at a higher risk of developing severe symptoms and side effects, of COVID-19. Just like with the seasonal flu, seniors, especially those with chronic health conditions, are at higher risk of being affected as COVID-19 spreads.

Introduction

Evidence has shown that people with underlying health conditions, including lung disease, seem to be at greater risk of serious illness from COVID-19.

Focus

The CDC has issued guidelines for people who are at higher risk.

Begin to practice everyday preventive actions NOW.

Remind everyone in your household of the importance of practicing everyday preventive actions that can help prevent the spread of respiratory illnesses.

The CDC recommends getting ready for COVID-19 NOW, and to help protect yourself by doing the following:

Medical Conditions that Increase Risk of Serious COVID-19 for All Ages

Just like with the seasonal flu, seniors, especially those with chronic health conditions, are at higher risk of being affected as COVID-19 spreads. Other conditions that could cause serious side effects of Coronavirus COVID-19 include:

If you are among those listed above for being at a higher risk of severe symptoms of COVID-19, you should begin to act NOW by:

N95 Masks

Continued below image.
The 8210V Disposable Respirator from 3M is rated N95 and blocks 95% of all non-oil particle matter down to .03 microns from getting into the lungs.
The 8210V Disposable Respirator from 3M is rated N95 and blocks 95% of all non-oil particle matter down to .03 microns from getting into the lungs.
Continued...

A disposable N95 mask, or respirator, is a safety device that covers the nose and mouth and helps protect the wearer from breathing in some hazardous substances. The 'N95' designation means that when subjected to careful testing, the respirator blocks at least 95 percent of very small (0.3 micron) test particles. An N95 mask protects you from breathing in small particles in the air. The best mask for bacteria and virus protection is an N95 or N100.

The OSHA directive indicates that a respirator can be reused as long as it "maintains its structural and functional integrity and the filter material is not physically damaged or soiled." Properly fitted N95 masks could help prevent transmission of the COVID-19 virus and the CDC is currently recommending N95 masks for health workers.

The 8210V Disposable Respirator from 3M - (as pictured above) - is rated N95 and blocks 95% of all non-oil particle matter down to.03 microns from getting into the lungs.

Watch for COVID-19 Symptoms and Warning Signs

1 - Pay attention for potential COVID-19 symptoms including, fever, cough, and shortness of breath. If you feel like you are developing symptoms, call your doctor.

2 - If you develop emergency warning signs for COVID-19 get medical attention immediately. In adults, emergency warning signs*:

*This list is not all inclusive. Please consult your medical provider for any other symptoms that are severe or concerning.

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Author Credentials: Ian is an Australian-born writer, editor, and advocate who currently resides in Montreal, Canada. He is the founder and Editor-in-Chief of Disabled World, a leading resource for news and information on disability issues. With a global perspective shaped by years of travel and lived experience, Ian is a committed proponent of the Social Model of Disability-a transformative framework developed by disabled activists in the 1970s that emphasizes dismantling societal barriers rather than focusing solely on individual impairments. His work reflects a deep commitment to disability rights, accessibility, and social inclusion. To learn more about Ian's background, expertise, and accomplishments, visit his full biography.

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Citing and References

Founded in 2004, Disabled World (DW) is a leading resource on disabilities, assistive technologies, and accessibility, supporting the disability community. Learn more on our About Us page.

Cite This Page: Disabled World. (2020, March 13 - Last revised: 2021, August 23). Underlying Medical Conditions That Increase Risk of Serious COVID-19 Illness for All Ages. Disabled World (DW). Retrieved May 24, 2025 from www.disabled-world.com/disability/emergency/underlying.php

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