COVID-19 causes a mild illness in many people. But some people may be at higher risk for having severe symptoms from COVID-19. A recent study found that 88% of hospitalized COVID-19 patients had more than one chronic condition,* and other factors can also increase your risk.

Watch this video to learn who’s at higher risk of complications from COVID-19 and what to do if you have symptoms.

You may be at high risk if you:

Are 65 or older

Live in a long-term care facility

Have an ongoing serious health condition, such as: Lung disease or asthma Heart conditions High blood pressure Severe obesity Diabetes Kidney or liver disease A weakened immune system

Cancer treatment

Smoke or vape tobacco/nicotine or marijuana (Kaiser Permanente members can get help quitting with a personalized online plan or from a wellness coach by phone)

If you’re pregnant, it may be safest to consider yourself at higher risk because information on how COVID-19 affects pregnant women is limited. To learn more about how the virus could affect you or your care, visit kp.org/maternity-covid.

If you have an ongoing health condition, here are some ways you can help keep yourself safe.

Stay home as much as you can.

Have supplies on hand, like food, household items, medical supplies, and over-the-counter and prescription medications.

Routinely clean and disinfect high-touch surfaces like doorknobs, light switches, and phones.

Limit visitors.

When you leave home, keep 6 feet of space between yourself and others.

Wear a cloth face cover when you’re near other people.

Wear gloves or carry tissues or paper towels with you to protect your hands when you need to touch things like door handles, shopping carts, and handrails.

Don’t touch your face, and wash your hands often.

Have a plan in case you get sick

If you develop symptoms of COVID-19 — such as fever, cough, or shortness of breath — call your doctor.



*Safiya Richardson et al., “Presenting Characteristics, Comorbidities, and Outcomes Among 5700 Patients Hospitalized With COVID-19 in the New York City Area,” Journal of the American Medical Association, April 22, 2020.