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Daily Mirror
Daily Mirror
National
Milo Boyd

Coronavirus tool calculates how at risk you are before returning to work

People worried about going back to work and exposing themselves to the coronavirus can now find out how at risk they are.

A new tool built by the University of Exeter Medical Schoo l allows people to tot up their key details.

Using your age, ethnicity and a number of other key factors it is possible to calculate how susceptible to coronavirus you might be.

While the tool can only suggest how at threat people are, a high points tally indicates someone is more likely to be at risk.

A score of six or more would land you in the "high risk" camp, while anything below three is "low risk".

The tool takes into account a number of factors (BMA)

Those concerned about whether they should go back to work or head into more crowded spaces can use the software as guidance.

Researchers began developing the tool when evidence emerged that people from certain backgrounds were particularly vulnerable.

Health workers from black, Asian and minority ethnic (BAME) backgrounds have been particularly badly impacted by the coronavirus.

Despite 44% of medical staff in the UK being non-white, 94% of doctors who have died from Covid-19 were BAME.

Certain groups of people are more at risk than others (PA)

It is hoped the tool could help doctors and nurses in the risk categories to make good decision about their health.

Dr. Anil Jain, a consultant radiologist, is now working from his home in Manchester after the calculator revealed his high-risk level.

The 59-year-old, who is of Indian heritage, has underlying health conditions which put him at very high risk.

He told Medical Express of his decision to stay at home after scoring highly: "It's a relief to feel safer, and to know my employer understands and supports that need."

"The impact of Covid-19 on BAME health and social care workers has been absolutely catastrophic.

"It makes absolute sense to have this robust risk assessment tool, which is essential in keeping people safe if they're at higher risk."

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