As we move through the COVID-19 pandemic, studies from the United Kingdom show that people living with obesity are up to one and a half times more likely to test positive for COVID-19 when compared to those in the healthy weight range.   

Once infected with COVID-19, people living with overweight and obesity are more likely to experience severe disease outcomes. 

Whilst the connection between living with overweight and obesity, and severe outcomes from COVID-19 are not yet clearly understood, it is thought that underlying health conditions such as cardiovascular disease, hypertension, diabetes, autoimmune disease or oral steroid use may be contributing factors. 

• Checking in with your trusted health professional to discuss your specific risks and whether there is anything specific you can do to prepare yourself if you become ill. 
• Developing a COVID plan for yourself, including identifying a support person who you can reach out to if you become unwell.  
• Preparing a COVID-19 Care Kit: Information can be found under the “Be Prepared” tab. 

• Purchasing some easy to prepare foods in case you need to isolate.   
• Buying some Rapid Antigen Test (RATS) so you won’t have to leave the house to get tested if you develop symptoms.  If you live in Western Australia, you can apply for 15 free tests per household here.