On behalf of Hywel Dda:
Whilst the risk of serious illness or death from COVID-19 is lower in young people compared to older adults, the virus can still have a devastating effect on them.
Data indicates that young people are more likely to get long COVID – an illness we are still learning about but which can have long term, detrimental effects on a person’s everyday life.
A study conducted by the Department of Health and Social Care, Public Health England and seven UK universities found younger adults admitted to hospital with COVID-19 are almost as likely to suffer from complications as those aged over 50. Four in 10 of those aged between 19 and 49 developed problems with their kidneys, lungs, or other organs while treated.
It’s up to all of us take simple measures against the spread of COVID-19. This not only protects ourselves and those we love, but also our wider communities and public services that we all rely on.
We know that not many young people will read local papers or follow us on social media. That’s why we are asking for your help in sharing important information and messages with young people.
You can do this in a number of ways:
- Follow your local county council or Hywel Dda University Health Board social media accounts – it’s easy to search for them
- Share their messages on your own social media pages (open or closed) regularly – there are lots of adverts, videos, GIFs and animations aimed at this group
- Send out links or key messages to distribution groups you may have on email, What’s App, Snapchat or Messenger
- Talk to young people about their fears or barriers and let them know that it is never too late to accept a vaccine
The key messages for us all are:
- COVID-19 vaccinations are safe and effective and they are helping us to ease restrictions on our lives, including opening up international travel for work, study and pleasure
- Please accept your vaccine – the door will always be open to you
Other measures are scientifically proven to ease transmission of the disease, so please:
- Self-isolate and book a test, even for mild symptoms
- Work from home whenever you can
- Meet outside as its safer than inside
- Limit social contact and keep a distance when possible
- Wear a mask, especially in crowded places
- Wash your hands regularly and thoroughly
You can find out where you can get a vaccine, or book a vaccine, from the health board’s website https://hduhb.nhs.wales/healthcare/covid-19-information/covid-19-vaccination-programme/
