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Hindustan Times
2 days ago
- Health
- Hindustan Times
Kenneth Colley dies of Covid and pneumonia: A lung specialist explains the risks
The death of British actor Kenneth Colley, celebrated for his role as Admiral Piett in the beloved Star Wars franchise, has left many in the entertainment world mourning. Colley, who was 87 years old, died on June 30 after contracting Covid-19 and subsequently pneumonia while hospitalised for an arm injury sustained in a fall. His medical case underscores the importance of understanding that older adults are more susceptible to Covid-19 pneumonia, which may affect them more severely. Understanding COVID-19 Risks(Instagram) The connection between Covid-19 and pneumonia Covid-19 does not only induce cardiovascular complications but also lung problems in people. It is a viral infection that affects the lungs and can cause breathing difficulties. One of the serious complications of Covid-19 is pneumonia, which happens when the virus causes the lungs to become inflamed and filled with fluid. Pneumonia caused by Covid-19 is different from regular pneumonia. In Covid-19, the virus directly attacks the air sacs in the lungs (called alveoli), making it hard for the body to get enough oxygen. This can cause symptoms such as shortness of breath, chest pain, cough, and fever. In some people, the condition can get worse quickly and lead to respiratory failure, which may require oxygen support or even a ventilator. Who is at a greater risk of Covid pneumonia? 'Understand that those with weak immune systems, the elderly, or those with health conditions like diabetes, asthma, or heart disease are at higher risk of developing Covid-related pneumonia,' Dr Samir Garde, Director of the Department of Pulmonology and Lung Transplant, Gleneagles Hospital, tells Health Shots. Timely management of pneumonia would be essential for better health, but prevention is the best cure. "It is necessary to cover your mouth while travelling or in public places, follow proper cough etiquette, and avoid being around people who are sick. Take utmost care of the lungs and prevent pneumonia," adds Dr Garde. Understanding pneumonia: Symptoms and causes What is pneumonia? Pneumonia is an infection that inflames the air sacs in the lungs, causing them to fill with fluid. Common symptoms include: Fever Cough Shortness of breath Fatigue In the context of Covid-19, pneumonia can manifest in two primary ways: through direct viral infection of lung tissue or as a result of an immune response that leads to inflammation. Age-related health risks of covid-19 Older adults are particularly susceptible to severe health risks from Covid-19 and pneumonia due to various factors: Declining immune function: As individuals age, their immune systems become less efficient, making it more challenging to combat infections. As individuals age, their immune systems become less efficient, making it more challenging to combat infections. Underlying health conditions: Many seniors have pre-existing conditions, such as cardiovascular disease or diabetes, which increase their risk of complications. Data indicates that elderly individuals are significantly more likely to be hospitalised with covid-19 and suffer higher mortality rates compared to younger populations. For instance, the Journal of the American Geriatrics Society reported that nearly 80% of Covid-19-related deaths in the US occurred among those aged 65 and older. Hospitalisation risks following falls in seniors In situations like Colley's, a seemingly simple event such as a fall can lead to severe health complications: Increased infection risk in hospitals: Hospital environments expose patients to various pathogens, elevating the risk of infections. Hospital environments expose patients to various pathogens, elevating the risk of infections. Pneumonia risk: Once hospitalised, individuals with Covid-19 face a heightened risk of developing pneumonia, complicating their recovery. Studies published in the medical journal Critical Care have shown a significant increase in pneumonia risk for patients diagnosed with covid-19. The importance of vaccination for older adults Kenneth Colley's situation serves as a poignant reminder of the critical need for preventive measures among older adults, particularly vaccinations. Vaccination: Covid-19 vaccinations have proven to be one of the most effective methods for reducing infection rates and preventing severe illness. Covid-19 vaccinations have proven to be one of the most effective methods for reducing infection rates and preventing severe illness. Additional vaccinations: Seniors should also prioritise receiving flu and pneumonia vaccines to ensure comprehensive protection. Seniors should also prioritise receiving flu and pneumonia vaccines to ensure comprehensive protection. Fall prevention: Implementing strategies to prevent falls can help reduce the likelihood of hospitalisation and associated health risks. Preventing falls and infections in seniors The tragic passing of Kenneth Colley highlights the essential health risks faced by older adults as a result of a Covid-19 infection. His story encourages us to understand better and mitigate the dangers, particularly pneumonia, associated with covid-19. Tips for protecting seniors There are several approaches that families and caregivers can adopt to help protect older adults from Covid-19, pneumonia, and related health risks:
Time of India
10-06-2025
- Health
- Time of India
COVID-19 resurgence: India logs 163 cases of new XFG variant; experts address danger, early symptoms and more
India is currently seeing an upward spiral in COVID-19 cases again, after the recent spread in Southeast Asian countries including Singapore, Thailand and Hong Kong. On Tuesday morning, India reported 6815 active cases of COVID-19, among which 324 are fresh infections, and 3 deaths have been recorded in the last 24 hours. Apart from this, the Indian SARS-CoV-2 Genomics Consortium (INSACOG) data noted that 163 cases of the XFG variant of COVID-19 have been detected across the country, including in the states of Maharashtra, Tamil Nadu, Kerala, Gujarat, West Bengal and Andhra Pradesh. Moreover, Maharashtra has reported the highest number of XFG cases, with 89 infections so far. What is the XFG variant of COVID-19, and is it dangerous? India has detected new cases of a new Omicron-derived COVID-19 variant called XFG, first identified in Canada. 'If one is infected with this variant, then he/she can exhibit symptoms such as fever, dry cough, sore throat, headache, fatigue, body pain, nasal congestion, and runny nose,' warns Dr Samir Garde, Director of the Department of Pulmonology and Lung Transplant, Gleneagles Hospital, Parel. 🔍Weekly #EventBasedSurveillance | India#India has reported 6,851 active #COVID-19 cases, as per the latest data from the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare. The rise in infections is attributed to the spread of #Omicron sub-variants, particularly the newly detected XFG… 'However, this variant is not known to cause any severe illness or hospitalisation or higher morbidity and mortality rates in patients,' adds The symptoms due to this variant are reported to be mild. According to Dr. Garde, 'People need to be cautious and take utmost care of their well-being, as this XFG variant can spread rapidly. Hence, people should not panic. However, if you have any of these symptoms, then isolate yourself from your family members. 'Moreover, follow the doctor's advice after a confirmed diagnosis. Don't self-medicate at all. "To prevent the infection, get tested if you have flu-like symptoms and maintain respiratory hygiene, that is, wear a mask in crowded places and sneeze into your elbow and opt for handwashing,' he adds. Is the month of June the peak season for COVID-19 resurgence? Recently, the health authorities in Ludhiana flagged a concerning uptick in COVID-19 cases, with the district's positivity rate jumping to 7.14 per cent in early June, which is the highest monthly figure noted this year, reports ToI. As per the report, the number is nearly 12 times higher than in May. Does the month of June see a COVID-19 resurgence? 'New variants like XFG are likely more transmissible due to genetic mutations. "The situation demands caution, especially in crowded areas and among vulnerable populations,' says Dr. Sheela Chakravarthy, Director of Internal Medicine, Fortis Hospital, Bannerghatta Road, Bengaluru. Wearing masks, practising good hygiene, and staying updated with COVID-19 vaccine doses are crucial. 'Close monitoring and prompt public health action will help control the spread and mitigate the impact of this resurgence, protecting public health and preventing severe disease and hospitalisation. "Precautions are essential for all, particularly the elderly and those with comorbidities,' adds Dr. Chakravarthy. To stay updated on the stories that are going viral, follow Indiatimes Trending.
