Young people should not consider themselves safe from the novel coronavirus, World Health Organisation (WHO) director-general Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus has said amid evidence and perceptions that the virus hits the elderly the hardest.

“One of the things we are learning is that although older people are the hardest hit, younger people are not spared,” he said on Friday. “Data from many countries clearly show that people under 50 make up a significant proportion of patients requiring hospitalisation.”

Ghebreyesus added: “Today, I have a message for young people: you are not invincible. This virus could put you in hospital for weeks, or even kill you.”

The WHO director-general added in his message for the young people: “Even if you don’t get sick, the choices you make about where you go could be the difference between life and death for someone else.”

Medical researchers have been concerned that some infected people, including young people who do not develop significant symptoms, could pass the coronavirus to the elderly or people with underlying chronic health disorders in whom the infection could take a stormier course.

The coronavirus has caused illness in over 210,000 patients and killed more than 9,000 across the world since China reported the infection to the WHO on December 31.

Ghebreyesus also had some advice for people who are confined to their homes.

“During this difficult time, it’s important to continue looking after your physical and mental health. This will not only help you in the long term, it will also help you fight Covid-19 if you get it.”

The WHO chief emphasised the need to maintain health and a nutritious diet that would help the immune system function properly.

“Limit your alcohol consumption, avoid sugary drinks… don’t smoke. Smoking can increase your risk of developing serious disease if you become infected with Covid-19.”

Ghebreyesus also underlined the need for exercise. The WHO recommends 30 minutes of physical activity a day for adults and an hour a day for children.

“If your local or national guidelines allow it, go outside for a walk, a run or a ride, and keep a safe distance from others. If you can’t leave the house, find an exercise video online, dance to music, do some yoga, or walk up and down the stairs.”

Ghebreyesus said those working from home should ensure they do not sit in the same position for long periods. “Get up and take a 3-minute break every 30 minutes,” he said.

“Look after your mental health. It is normal to feel stressed, confused, and scared during a crisis. Talking to people you know and trust can help.”

He said that supporting others in the community can help them as well as those who lend such support.

“Try not to reach or watch too much news if it makes you anxious. Get your information from reliable sources once or twice a day,” he said.

He highlighted that the WHO had launched a new health alert messaging service.

This service provides the latest news and information on Covid-19, including details on symptoms and how people can protect themselves.