Living with COVID-19: A Guide to Risk Stratification
Updated July 15, 2021
Originally published April 4, 2020
Over the past several months, there has been an increase in COVID-19 cases and unfortunately, health care workers are preparing for another surge. While we have gained much insight into diagnosing and treating COVID-19, the disease still remains elusive and dangerous. Currently, there are several updates in prevention and treatment of COVID-19 that may provide the key to turning the corner on this pandemic:
· There are currently 3 vaccines available against COVID-19 in the United States: Pfizer, Moderna and Johnson & Johnson. These vaccines have been granted emergency use authorization by the FDA, and are currently the best tool to (1) prevent the spread and development of COVID-19 variant strains and (2) decrease the risk of severe disease progression requiring hospitalization.
· Engineered antibody cocktails, such as those developed by Pfizer and Regeneron, may make a significant impact in treating outpatient COVID-19 patients and reducing the risk of severe disease, particularly when given earlier in the disease course. Supplies are limited based on physical location, so patients are encouraged to contact their physician for more information.
With variant strains on the rise and community-level restrictions varying from location to location, the next few months are critical to fighting the virus by maintaining diligent social distancing measures and mask utilization. Many people are fatigued of these measures, but rest assured, this saves lives. While awaiting further developments from the scientific community, it is important to identify ourselves and daily activities based on their risk levels so that we may make more informed decisions about adjusting to a COVID-19 world.
High Risk Individuals
- Individuals over the age of 60 with no significant underlying medical conditions
- Individuals with underlying medical conditions such as heart disease, cancer, obesity, diabetes, renal disease or lung disease, regardless of age
Moderate Risk Individuals
- Individuals between the ages of 30-60 with no significant underlying medical conditions
Low Risk Individuals
- Individuals under the age of 30 with no significant underlying medical conditions
High Risk Activities
Activities that involve being indoors or in a poorly ventilated area without proper social distancing
- Examples: Traveling, Eating Indoors at a Restaurant, Beauty Salons, Movie Theatres
- If you are going to engage in high risk activity, it is highly recommended to wear a face shield and mask, preferably a fitted N95 mask to reduce the heightened risk associated with close contact. You should avoid touching common surfaces and wash your hands frequently.
Note: Masks that do not fit around your nose and mouth, such as bandanas or gaiters, are not necessarily effective in protection compared to surgical masks or N95 masks.
Moderate Risk Activities
Activities that involve being outdoors without proper social distancing and/or large groups of people
- Examples: Eating Outdoors at a Restaurant, Outdoor Concerts, Outdoor Parties
- If you are going to engage in moderate risk activity, it is strongly recommended to wear a face mask. If you or a member of your household are in the high risk category, it is recommended to wear a face shield in addition to a fitted face mask.
Low Risk Activities
Activities that involve being outdoors or in areas with improved ventilation that can accommodate proper social distancing measures
- Examples: Walking Outdoors with Family, Riding a Bike
- If you are going to engage in low risk activity, it is recommended to wear a face mask. If you or a member of your household are in the high risk category, it is advisable to wear a face shield in addition to a fitted face mask.
Ultimately, engaging in social activities during COVID-19 is a probability game: the more people you're exposed to on a daily basis, the higher likelihood you have to contract the virus. This likelihood is increased when participating in high or moderate risk activities. It is important to remember that while these times seem daunting and tiresome, this is a community effort. We must stay the course to protect others.