Obesity makes other diseases such as diabetes and high blood pressure more likely, the US researchers say.
Along with a weakened immune system, this can make these individuals more vulnerable to severe Covid-19.
They also warn a vaccine against coronavirus could be less effective in obese people.
This is based on the fact that flu vaccines don't work as well in those with a body mass index (BMI) of over 30.
The team, from the University of North Carolina, looked at data from 75 studies from around the world for their research, including nearly 400,000 patients.
They found that people with obesity and Covid-19 were twice as likely to end up in hospital and 74% more likely to be admitted to intensive care. They were also more at risk of dying from the disease caused by coronavirus.
Studies from the UK have shown similar risks for people carrying excess weight, prompting the government to introduce new measures to curb obesity.
...
BBC
Along with a weakened immune system, this can make these individuals more vulnerable to severe Covid-19.
They also warn a vaccine against coronavirus could be less effective in obese people.
This is based on the fact that flu vaccines don't work as well in those with a body mass index (BMI) of over 30.
The team, from the University of North Carolina, looked at data from 75 studies from around the world for their research, including nearly 400,000 patients.
They found that people with obesity and Covid-19 were twice as likely to end up in hospital and 74% more likely to be admitted to intensive care. They were also more at risk of dying from the disease caused by coronavirus.
Studies from the UK have shown similar risks for people carrying excess weight, prompting the government to introduce new measures to curb obesity.
...
BBC
