노인에서 코로나바이러스감염병-19의 임상적 특성

Clinical Feature of Coronavirus Disease 2019 in Elderly

The rapid worldwide spread of the novel severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) has led to a pandemic of coronavirus disease (COVID-19) creating a global health care crisis since its emergence in December 2019. Transmission of SARS-CoV-2 occurs through direct contact with droplets from infected individuals or through indirect contact with virus-con-taminated surfaces. Notably, asymptomatic individuals (carriers) may spread SARS-CoV-2, resulting in widespread community infection. Elderly individuals or those with underlying diseases, such as hypertension, diabetes, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, and malignancy constitute a high-risk population, who may show sudden worsening of, symptoms with severe pneumonia or even death. Social distancing or self-isolation to minimize disease transmission can lead to social isolation and depression, cognitive decline, and exacerbation of chronic diseases in elderly individuals who receive health care and welfare services. In this study, we focused on the clinical features of COVID-19 in the elderly population.