Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) is an infectious disease caused by a newly discovered coronavirus. It can be spread from person to person and is diagnosed with a laboratory test. There is no coronavirus vaccine yet. However, there are many ongoing clinical trials evaluating potential treatments. Older people, and those with underlying medical problems like cardiovascular disease, diabetes, chronic respiratory disease, and cancer are more likely to develop serious illness.
It appears that symptoms are showing up in people within 14 days of exposure to the virus. COVID-19 symptoms include:
- Cough
- Fever or chills
- Fever or chills
- Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing
- Muscle or body aches
- Sore throat
- New loss of taste or smell
- Diarrhea
- Headache
- Fatigue
- Nausea or vomiting
- Congestion or runny nose
In rare cases, COVID-19 can lead to severe respiratory problems, kidney failure or death.
The best way to prevent and slow down transmission is be well informed about the COVID-19 virus, the disease it causes and how it spreads.
- Protect yourself and others from infection by washing your hands or using an alcohol based rub frequently and not touching your face. Maintain a safe distance from anyone who is coughing or sneezing.
- Wear a mask when physical distancing is not possible.
- Don’t touch your eyes, nose or mouth.
- Cover your nose and mouth with your bent elbow or a tissue when you cough or sneeze.
- Stay home if you feel unwell.
- If you have a fever, cough and difficulty breathing, seek medical attention.
