Dear National Forum Members, Stakeholders, and Mayors in Move with the Mayor™,
CDC this afternoon gave a briefing on people who are at higher risk for severe illness from COVID-19. The briefer reported that, “Data clearly show people at older ages have higher risk.” This includes people over age 50, especially those over 65. Additionally, people of all ages who have underlying medical conditions, including “serious heart conditions … and diabetes,” “… especially where the conditions are not well-controlled” are at higher risk.
Who exactly do they mean?
CDC said there is insufficient evidence today to specify which severe heart conditions are included. They added, based on the limited data available so far, it appears people with heart failure, coronary artery disease, genetic heart disease, and pulmonary hypertension may have higher risk for severe illness.
The bottom line on hypertension treatment is, “Stay the course,” the briefer said. CDC is “seeing an association epidemiologically with hypertension” but does not yet have enough evidence to tell whether people with hypertension alone are at greater risk for severe illness. CDC’s advice for people being treated for hypertension is to continue taking their medications as directed by their healthcare providers.
CDC’s latest guidance is available by clicking here. The American College of Cardiology, American Heart Association and Heart Failure Society of America jointly issued advice on the treatment of people with hypertension and heart failure. CDC will update its guidance as new evidence becomes available and the National Forum will keep you informed.
I hope you are well and stay that way.
Sincerely,
John M. Clymer
Executive Director
National Forum for Heart Disease & Stroke Prevention
