COVID-19 is caused by a coronavirus called SARS-CoV-2. Older adults and people who have severe underlying medical conditions like heart or lung disease or diabetes seem to be at higher risk for developing more serious complications from COVID-19 illness.
It is thought to spread mainly from person to person, mainly through respiratory droplets produced when an infected person coughs or sneezes. These droplets can land in the mouths or noses of people who are nearby or possibly be inhaled into the lungs. Spread is more likely when people are in close contact with one another (within about 6 feet). It may be possible that a person can get COVID-19 by touching a surface or object that has the virus on it and then touching their own mouth, nose, or possibly their eyes. This is not thought to be the main way the virus spreads, but we are still learning more about this virus.
Symptoms
Symptoms may appear 2-14 days after exposure to the virus. People with these symptoms may have COVID-19:
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 or vomiting
Diarrhea
Look for emergency warning signs for COVID-19. If someone is showing any of these signs, seek emergency medical care immediately:
Trouble breathing
Persistent pain or pressure in the chest
New confusion
Inability to wake or stay awake
Pale, gray, or blue-colored skin, lips, or nail beds, depending on skin tone. Prevention
COVID-19 vaccines are effective at keeping you from getting COVID-19, especially severe illness and death. Vaccines are safe, effective, and free!
Learn how COVID-19 spreads and take steps to protect yourself and others.
To help protect yourself and others from COVID-19:
Get vaccinated and stay up to date on your COVID-19 vaccines.
Everyone ages 2 years and older should properly wear a well-fitting mask indoors in public in areas where the COVID-19 Community Level is high, regardless of vaccination status.
Avoid poorly ventilated spaces and crowds.
Test to prevent spread to others.
Wash your hands often. If soap and water are not readily available, use a hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol.
Cover coughs and sneezes.
Clean high touch surfaces regularly or as needed and after you have visitors in your home. If someone is sick or has tested positive for COVID-19, disinfect frequently touched surfaces.
Monitor your health daily.
Self care:
If you have possible or confirmed COVID-19:
Stay home except to get medical care.
Monitor your symptoms.
Get tested as soon as possible after your symptoms start.
Get rest and stay hydrated. Take over-the-counter medicines, such as acetaminophen, to help you feel better.
Call ahead before visiting your doctor.
If you are sick, wear a well-fitting mask.Treatments
Medications to treat COVID-19 must be prescribed by your healthcare provider and started as soon as possible after diagnoses to be effective. Contact a healthcare provider right away to determine if you are eligible for treatment, even if your symptoms are mild right now.
Medications to treat COVID-19 must be prescribed by your healthcare provider and started as soon as possible after diagnoses to be effective. Contact a healthcare provider right away to determine if you are eligible for treatment, even if your symptoms are mild right now.
Some treatments might have side effects or interact with other medications you are taking. To find out if medications to treat COVID-19 are right for you, you have options:
Talk to your healthcare provider
Visit a test to treat location
Contact your local community health center or health department
Your healthcare provider also may recommend the following to relieve symptoms and support your body’s natural defenses
Taking medications, like acetaminophen or ibuprofen, to reduce fever.
Drinking water or receiving intravenous fluids to stay hydrated.
Getting plenty of rest to help the body fight the virus.
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