Seems to be mainly the elderly (we get out of breath very easily; I'm always telling young friends to walk more slowly). Attacks the lungs so I suspect smokers (or past smokers); druggies or drinkers (weakened immune systems after years of self abuse); are more liable to be badly affected.

Or am I being cynical? If we had shut down every Flu season, would we have saved millions? Ditto colds?

I'm no doctor. I know nothing. Just know the Media which LOVES a good story.

The media exploiting a good story doesn't necessarily mean it isn't true.
The virus is one thing, and how it is handled is a separate matter.

I find that truth usually lands smack in the middle.