Coronavirus (COVID-19)

What is COVID-19?

COVID-19 (coronavirus disease 2019) is caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus. It first appeared in late 2019 and spread worldwide, leading to a global pandemic. COVID-19 can affect people of all ages, and symptoms range from no symptoms at all to life-threatening illness.

Symptoms of COVID-19

Symptoms may appear 2 to 14 days after exposure. Common symptoms include:

• Fever or chills
• Cough
• Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing
• Fatigue
• Muscle or body aches
• Headache
• New loss of taste or smell
• Sore throat
• Congestion or runny nose
• Nausea, vomiting or diarrhea

Some people develop severe symptoms, such as trouble breathing, persistent chest pain, confusion, or bluish lips or face. These require immediate medical care.

What causes COVID-19?

COVID-19 is caused by infection with the SARS-CoV-2 virus. The virus spreads primarily:

• Through respiratory droplets when a person coughs, sneezes, talks, or breathes
• By being in close contact (within 6 feet) with someone who has the infection
• Less often, by touching surfaces contaminated with the virus and then touching your mouth, nose, or eyes

Variants of the virus, such as delta and omicron, may spread more easily.

How is COVID-19 diagnosed?

Diagnosis is usually based on a test for SARS-CoV-2. Common tests include:

• PCR tests: Detect viral genetic material and are highly accurate.
• Antigen tests: Provide faster results but may be less accurate.

Your family doctor may recommend testing if you have symptoms or were exposed to someone with COVID-19.

Can COVID-19 be prevented or avoided?

The best ways to lower your risk include:

• Getting vaccinated and staying up to date with boosters
• Washing your hands often with soap and water
• Using alcohol-based hand sanitizer when soap is not available
• Avoiding close contact with people who are sick
• Wearing a mask in crowded or poorly ventilated spaces
• Covering coughs and sneezes
• Staying home when you feel sick

COVID-19 treatment

Treatment depends on how severe the illness is. Options include:

• Rest, fluids, and over-the-counter medicines for mild symptoms
• Prescription antiviral medicines, such as nirmatrelvir/ritonavir (Paxlovid), for higher-risk patients
• Hospital care with oxygen or mechanical ventilation for severe cases

Your doctor will decide the best treatment based on your age, health history, and risk factors.

Living with COVID-19

Most people recover fully within a few weeks. Some continue to feel tired or have lingering symptoms, known as long COVID. Long COVID can include fatigue, trouble concentrating, and shortness of breath. If your symptoms last longer than 4 weeks, talk to your doctor.