When a coronavirus outbreak starts, researchers around the world are working hard to find out who most at risk is and what they can do to protect them. According to some studies, older people are at greater risk of developing severe symptoms than younger folk. Similarly, people with underlying conditions like cancer and diabetes were also quickly identified at increased risk. 

Also, people who are overweight are at greater risk of developing severe symptoms of coronavirus disease. Even if they are young, they will end up at the hospital being infected with the disease. COVID-19 affects nearly everyone at any age. Be healthy and follow the precautionary measures given by our healthcare professionals. 

OVERWEIGHT

This is an excessive fat build-up that presents a threat to your health. Overweight may also cause extra bone, water, or muscle. Your BMI or body mass index is one way to if you are overweight, at a healthy weight, or have obesity. The BMI is a measure based on your weight with your height. The greater your BMI, the greater your risk of health problems from overweight. 

BEING OVERWEIGHT AFFECTS HEALTH AND IMMUNITY 

Being obese does not only increase the chances of developing chronic health problems. It also increases the risk of infections. People who are overweight often have an impaired immune response. It means that they are more likely to get germs like bacteria and viruses that will invade their body and set up an infection. According to studies, being obese are more likely to catch seasonal flu, more at risk from severe outcomes, and more likely to pass the infection on to others. Given the complex relationship between health and weight, the effect is likely to be the result of the combined interaction. These interactions include physical, social, and environmental factors. Being obese increases the risk of several underlying health conditions that makes people more vulnerable to the effects of coronavirus. 

HOW TO STAY HEALTHY IF YOU ARE OVERWEIGHT DURING OUTBREAK?

It’s probably a good idea for everyone to focus on supporting our immunity and overall health, at any size. 

• Follow the guidelines of hygiene and social distancing. Wash your hands often and avoid large gatherings.
• Maintain a healthy weight by following an eating plan. Make sure that your eating plan is right for you.
• Nourish your body with plenty of fruit and vegetable to support your immune system.
• Regularly, you can do some physical activities that you enjoy.
• Look also after your mental health and your body.

IMPORTANCE OF KNOWING WHO IS AT RISK OF CORONAVIRUS DISEASE

It is not about blaming or fat-shaming to know about the links between COVID-19 and obesity. It’s about making sure that people who are at higher risk can be protected and gets the care they need if they get sick. The principle in this is called healthy equity. Wherein, it gives individual what they truly need to reach their optimal health. We need to know who is at risk of the disease so we can protect the right people and get prepared if they get sick.