How to prepare for a new infectious and virulent strain of COVID-19 in older adults

How To Prepare for A New Infectious and Virulent Strain of Covid-19 in Older Adults Student’s Name Professor’s Name Institutional Affiliations Course Name and Number Due Date How To Prepare for A New Infectious and Virulent Strain of Covid-19 in Older Adults The COVID-19 pandemic’s impacts on healthcare systems and population health demonstrated the need for nations to remain adequately prepared for future outbreaks. Gong et al. (n.d.) reveal that although the global strategies for breaking the transmission of the disease have reduced infection rates significantly and enabled the world to resume normal operations, the dangers of contracting the disease persist. The authors reveal the emergence of varied COVID-19 strains that threaten the health of vulnerable groups such as older adults, including Omicron variants, Delta, and Beta, listed in Figure 1. Haque and Pant (2022) agree with these observations by emphasizing the need for this population to continue observing preventative measures and avert associated complications of struggling with the disease. Thus, this paper illustrates the lingering threats of COVID-19 virulent strains and strategies for protecting older adults from new infections.
Figure 1. Various COVID-19 variants Emerging COVID-19 strains have demonstrated their virulent nature and the risk of increasing morbidity and mortality rates among vulnerable older people. For instance, Gong et al. (n.d.) indicate that JN.1 and EG.5 are highly infectious strains with differing risks from one country to another, as highlighted in Figure 2. Considering that a significant proportion of COVID-19-related mortality rates constituted the elderly population by up to 533.5 persons per 100,000 (Figure 3), prioritizing continued vaccination would minimize their vulnerability to the disease (Gong et al., n.d.). The National Council on Aging (2024) recommends vaccination as the leading approach for preparing these individuals against emerging strains. Haque and Pant (2022) support similar methods by indicating that the mRNA vaccines strengthen the immune system of older persons, making them less susceptible to developing COVID-19 infections and related symptoms. Although the authors recognize that preventative measures do not guarantee 100% protection, they increase protection from infections by up to 90% globally (Haque & Pant, 2022). Thus, this aspect is critical for overcoming emerging strains and increasing desirable health outcomes. The National Council on Aging (2024) adds that older people beyond 65 should boost their immunity by taking an additional vaccine dose. Ongoing investigations to formulate next-generation vaccines will keep these populations well-prepared for other emerging variants. Thus, healthcare providers should continue prioritizing vaccination among this population.
Wearing effective masks remains a recommended ...