COVID-19: 27-yr old patient in ICU, risk exists for youth

Health officials have revealed that a 27-year old individual is being treated in the internal care unit, which shows the gravity of the virus and its possible severity on the younger generation as well. 

Health Emergency Operations Center (HEOC) epidemiologist Dr. Sheena Moosa said that the 27-yr old individual being treated in the ICU was evidence that youths are not to ease up on safety measures for the virus. 

Speaking on a program of Raajje TV last night, Dr. Sheena said that although the virus was particularly dangerous for elderly people and individuals with chronic illnesses, the virus could still affect younger generations.

She said that the number of individuals receiving treatment for complications such as hypertension and diabetes was high when looking at the youth population of the nation. Nearly a quarter of the population were smokers which was a risk factor as well, noted Dr. Sheena.

"So we cannot say that they won't be affected. Very recently, a 27-year old was admitted at the ICU. So even though the youth population is high, due to health hazards, and high-risk practices and comorbidities, there is a chance." said Dr. Sheena. 

The Maldives has confirmed 6,779 cases of the virus. A total of 3,395 of the infected are aged around 21-40, according to HPA statistics, They include 2,589 male and 806 females.