The link between COVID-19 and CVD

For more information on the link between COVID-19 and CVD, please visit the official journal of WHF.

People of all ages can be infected by the new coronavirus. However, the virus poses a particular risk to people over the age of 60 and those we have underlying medical conditions, including:

• Cardiovascular disease
• Hypertension
• Diabetes
• Chronic respiratory disease
• Cancer

To avoid infection, we recommend you to:

• Continue to take your medication and follow medical advice
• Secure a one month supply of your medication or longer if possible
• Keep a distance of at least one metre from people with a cough, cold or flu
• Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds
• Stay at home if possible 
• Follow the instructions of the Department of Health and local authorities in your country

Remain aware of your health state. If you experience symptoms (shortness of breath, fever and cough), call your doctor or a hospital immediately. Explain to them that you are calling in relation to the new coronavirus and that you are at high risk.

Remember to also protect your mental health and well-being. If you need to stay home for a prolonged period, try maintaining a daily routine that prioritizes looking after yourself.

Take care of your heart while at home

Being in self-quarantine can lead people to adopt unhealthy eating habits. To avoid stress and exhaustion, make sure you follow a daily schedule and maintain a healthy lifestyle:

• Continue doing exercise, eating a balanced diet, staying hydrated and getting adequate sleep.
• Maintain your social network even remotely and communicate with your friends and family on a regular basis.
• Limit the information you consume about the outbreak and the time you spend on it, and only trust reliable sources.
• Avoid using coping strategies involving alcohol or drugs

WHO recommends 150 minutes of moderate-intensity or 75 minutes of vigorous-intensity physical activity per week, or a combination of both. These recommendations can still be achieved even at home:

• Take short active breaks during the day.
• Follow an online exercise class.
• Walk, stand up and relax!

Stay physically active while at home with this set of home-based exercises from WHO/Europe.

If you have any questions, please contact us at info@worldheart.org.