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the research, published in the annals of internal medicine , also discovered patients with down syndrome were four times more likely to require hospitalization after contracting the virus and found them to be “a group that is not strategically protected,” according to cnn .
“from the beginning of the pandemic, we have been concerned about our community, especially given the complex medical histories of many of our loved ones,” said kandi pickard, president and ceo of the national down syndrome society . “this recent study confirms our concerns.”
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because much remains unknown about the connection between the virus and down syndrome, many health agencies have not issued specific guidance for people with the condition. however, the global down syndrome foundation stresses the group should be considered high risk because many of the disorder’s underlying conditions — such as sleep apnea and increased risk of respiratory infections — make them more vulnerable to the virus.
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the issue is compounded by the fact that patients with down syndrome can have difficulty expressing themselves and processing information, which may lead to difficulty understanding and following covid safety protocols such as physical distancing and wearing protective masks. the national down syndrome society has put together a factsheet that explains some other issues of concern. “people with down syndrome may also have a hard time telling others when they don’t feel well,” it says. “they may have trouble knowing they have symptoms or how to describe them. for these reasons, they may not raise concerns or seek medical care quickly. therefore, it is necessary to pay close attention and be watchful.”
