Every day we learn more about COVID-19. We know the symptoms of the virus and things we can do to keep others and ourselves safe. As more information is collected, our knowledge grows, including those who may be more at risk.
Annals of Internal Medicine recently published a study that focused on COVID-19 and Down syndrome. The study reviewed data of over 8 million adults, including men and women with and without Down syndrome, inclusive of different demographic and clinical characteristics.
The study estimates individuals with Down syndrome have four times the risk of hospitalization related to COVID-19 and ten times the risk of dying from the virus.
Why is there a greater risk for individuals with Down syndrome?
According to information on the National Down Syndrome Society’s website, individuals with Down syndrome may have medical issues that could put them at higher risk. These medical problems can include things like certain heart problems, chronic respiratory problems, and lower immune function.
There are also challenges with both the prevention and diagnosis of COVID-19.
Learning, understanding, and communicating is done in different ways for individuals with Down syndrome. Individuals may have a hard time taking steps to keep themselves healthy such as practicing social distancing and wearing a mask.
They may also have difficulty knowing they have symptoms or describing what they are feeling, which could lead to a delay in receiving medical care.
What can we do?
The most important thing is to continue to follow established guidelines: wash your hands, wear a mask, and practice social distancing. It is important to remember that those most at risk may have a more difficult time staying healthy or recovering should they become ill.
If you know someone with Down syndrome, share the importance of the guidelines with him or her. Sing a song like “Happy Birthday” while washing your hands, explain social distancing and visually demonstrate what it looks like, practice wearing a facemask, and talk about waving and smiling instead of hugging and touching. Maintain daily routines as much as possible, encourage a healthy diet, and stay active.
Download a PDF of additional information.
Together, we can continue to protect one another.
