COVID-19 in Mid-2025: A Reminder on Who Is Still at High Risk
Here we are in July 2025, and life, for the most part, has found its new rhythm. The acute phase of the pandemic feels like a distant memory for many. However, it’s crucial to remember that the SARS-CoV-2 virus hasn’t disappeared. It continues to circulate, evolve, and pose a significant threat, especially to vulnerable individuals. This article serves as a timely reminder of the comorbidities that increase the risk of severe COVID-19 and why continued caution is our best defence.
A “comorbidity” is simply a pre-existing medical condition. Having one or more of these conditions can make it harder for your body to fight off an infection like COVID-19. This is often because the underlying illness has already placed stress on your organs (like the heart or lungs) or has weakened your immune system’s ability to respond effectively.
While the virus can affect anyone, years of data have consistently shown that certain groups face a much higher risk of developing severe complications, requiring hospitalisation, or worse.
Who is at the highest risk?
Individuals with the following pre-existing conditions should remain particularly vigilant:
- Chronic Lung Diseases: Conditions like Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), cystic fibrosis, and moderate to severe asthma directly affect the lungs, the primary site of a COVID-19 infection, making them more susceptible to severe respiratory distress.
- Heart Conditions: People with heart failure, coronary artery disease, or cardiomyopathies are at high risk. The virus can cause inflammation of the heart muscle and place immense strain on a cardiovascular system that is already working hard.
- Diabetes (Type 1 and Type 2): Diabetes can impair immune function and cause chronic inflammation, making it more difficult for the body to control the virus and leading to more severe outcomes.
- Obesity: Defined as a Body Mass Index (BMI) of 30 or higher, obesity is a significant risk factor. It is a state of chronic inflammation and is associated with decreased lung capacity, which can worsen the effects of a respiratory infection.
- Chronic Kidney Disease: Impaired kidney function weakens the immune system. Many patients with advanced kidney disease require dialysis, which also increases their risk of exposure.
- Immunocompromised State: Anyone with a weakened immune system is at high risk. This includes people undergoing cancer treatment, those who have had an organ transplant, individuals living with HIV, and those taking immunosuppressive medications for conditions like rheumatoid arthritis.
- Chronic Liver Disease: Conditions such as alcohol-related liver disease, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, and especially cirrhosis can lead to a weakened immune response.
It’s also essential to remember that age itself is a major risk factor, with the risk of severe illness increasing significantly for older adults. The risk is not just additive; it can be exponential. A person with multiple comorbidities, such as an older adult with both diabetes and heart disease, faces an exceptionally high risk.
What Can You Do?
Vigilance in 2025 isn’t about isolation; it’s about smart, informed choices. Stay up-to-date with the latest recommended vaccinations, practice good hand hygiene, and consider wearing a mask in crowded, poorly ventilated indoor spaces, especially if you or someone you live with is high-risk.
Managing your underlying health problems is more important than ever. For health problems and to get relief at home, consider consulting a doctor on dofody. Getting professional advice quickly can make all the difference in managing symptoms and preventing complications.
COVID-19 is still with us, but by understanding the risks and protecting the vulnerable, we can continue to live our lives safely and responsibly.
