High-risk health problems COVID-19

COVID-19 causes a mild illness in many people who have it. But certain things may increase your risk for more serious illness. These include:

• Age.
  • Older adults are at highest risk. The risk increases with age.
  • Babies born premature or who are less than 1 year old may also be at high risk.
• Asthma, cystic fibrosis, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and other chronic lung disease.
• Tuberculosis (TB).
• Vaping or smoking or having a history of smoking.
• Serious heart conditions, such as heart failure, coronary artery disease, or high blood pressure.
• HIV.
• A weakened immune system or taking medicines, such as steroids, that suppress the immune system. This also includes medicines taken because of an organ transplant.
• Cancer or getting treatment for cancer.
• Conditions that involve the nerves and brain. Examples include stroke, dementia, and cerebral palsy.
• Being overweight (obesity).
• Diabetes.
• Chronic kidney disease.
• Liver disease.
• Substance use disorders.
• Sickle cell disease.
• Pregnancy or a recent pregnancy.
• Genetic, metabolic, or neurologic problems in children. This includes children who may have many health problems that affect many body systems. These problems may limit how well the child can do routine activities of daily life.
• Down syndrome.
• Mood disorders, such as depression or schizophrenia.

Some people have a higher risk of getting very sick or dying from COVID-19 because of where they live or work. The risk can also be higher if people don't have access to health care. This includes people from certain racial and ethnic minority groups, as well as people with disabilities.

This is not a complete list. If you have a chronic health problem, ask your doctor if you should take extra precautions. The more of these things you have, the higher your risk for serious illness. Talk with your doctor about ways to manage your risk.