What you need to know
- An analysis of California data found that older adults are most likely to die from COVID-19.
- Improved vaccination coverage in Latino communities has led to declining deaths in that population.
- COVID-19 is less deadly now than it was in 2020, but the virus is still dangerous for people across demographics.
In the more than four years since COVID-19 emerged, COVID-19 deaths have declined overall, but the disease remains dangerous across demographics. Anyone who contracts COVID-19 is at risk of severe illness, death, heart problems, and long COVID.
However, some people face an increased risk of dying from COVID-19—particularly marginalized populations and older adults.
Read on to learn more about who is most at risk and what we can do to protect ourselves and those around us from COVID-19.
Which communities face the greatest risk of death from COVID-19?
Marginalized populations are at greater risk of death from COVID-19 due to systemic health inequities. Older adults are also more likely to die from COVID-19 because they are more likely to have underlying health conditions and because our immune systems weaken as we age.
Compared to people between the ages of 18 and 39, people 75 and older are about nine times as likely to die from COVID-19.
How can I reduce my risk of severe illness and death from COVID-19?
Staying up to date on COVID-19 vaccines prevents severe illness, hospitalization, death, and long COVID.
The CDC recommends that people ages 65 and older receive an additional dose of the updated COVID-19 vaccine this spring—if at least four months have passed since their last dose. People who are immunocompromised may receive an additional dose of the updated vaccine at least two months after their last dose.
Incorporating additional mitigation methods like masking and improving indoor air quality also reduces your risk of contracting the virus.
How can I protect those who are more vulnerable to severe illness and death from COVID-19?
In addition to getting vaccinated, wearing a high-quality, well-fitting mask reduces your risk of contracting COVID-19 and spreading it to others. Staying home when you’re sick is also a good idea.
At crowded indoor gatherings, improving ventilation by opening doors and windows, using high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filters, and building your own Corsi-Rosenthal box can also reduce the spread of COVID-19.
For more information, talk to your health care provider.
This article is supported by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) as part of a financial assistance award to the CDC Foundation totaling $69,392,486 with 100 percent funded by CDC/HHS. The contents are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily represent the official views of, nor an endorsement, by CDC/HHS, or the U.S. Government. In addition, the CDC Foundation does not guarantee and is not responsible for the accuracy or reliability of information or content contained in this article. Moreover, the CDC Foundation expressly disclaims all liability for damages of any kind arising out of use, reference to, or reliance on any information contained within this article. This article are not intended as, and should not be interpreted by you as, constituting or implying the CDC Foundation’s endorsement, sponsorship, or recommendation of the information, products, or services found therein.