COVID-19
COVID-19 is a disease caused by a virus called coronavirus. The full name of the virus is SARS-CoV-2. It first appeared in late 2019 and spread quickly around the world.
How does it spread?
COVID-19 spreads mainly from person to person. This can happen when:
Someone with the virus coughs, sneezes, or talks.
Tiny droplets with the virus go into the air and are breathed in by others.
People touch surfaces with the virus on them and then touch their mouth, nose, or eyes.
Anyone can catch COVID-19, but some people are at higher risk for serious infection. They include people age 65 and older, women who are pregnant and people with certain illnesses.
What are the symptoms?
COVID-19 symptoms usually show up 2 to 14 days after you’re exposed to the virus.
This list doesn’t include every possible symptom. Symptoms can change as new types of the virus (variants) appear, and they may be different depending on whether you’ve had the COVID-19 vaccine.
Possible symptoms include:
- Fever or chills
- Cough
- Trouble breathing
- Tiredness
- Body aches
- Loss of taste or smell
- Sore throat
- Headache
- Runny or stuffy nose
- Nausea or vomiting
- Diarrhea
Prevention
Here are some ways to prevent COVID:
- Wash your hands often with soap and water.
- Use hand sanitizer if soap isn’t available.
- Clean frequently touched surfaces, such as countertops, handrails, and doorknobs regularly.
- Wear a mask in crowded or indoor places.
- Keep a safe distance from people who are sick.
Vaccination
Another powerful way to protect against getting seriously ill from COVID is with a vaccine. They can also help stop the spread of the virus.
COVID-19 vaccines are safe and have been tested by doctors and scientists. Getting vaccinated can give you stronger and longer-lasting protection. Talk to your healthcare provider if you have questions.
Feeling Sick?
If you think you have COVID-19:
Stay home and avoid other people.
Take a COVID-19 test if you can.
Call a doctor if your symptoms get worse.
Most people can recover at home, but some may need medical care. Treatment is available for people who are more likely to get very sick - talk to your healthcare provider.
If you have an emergency warning sign (like trouble breathing or chest pain), seek emergency medical care immediately.
More Info About Testing
Testing helps you find out if you have COVID-19, even if you don’t feel sick. This is important so you don’t spread the virus to others.
At-home tests are available for purchase online or in pharmacies and retail stores. If you have health insurance, it may reimburse the cost of purchasing self-tests. Visit FDA's website for a list of authorized tests. You may also ask a health care provider for any other options that might be available.
You should test if:
You have symptoms of COVID-19.
You were near someone who tested positive.
You are going to visit someone who is at higher risk (like an elderly person).
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The information above was gathered from the following sources. Please explore their websites for more detailed information.