What is Coronavirus (COVID-19)?
Coronaviruses are a large family of viruses that are common in people and animals. A newly identified type called COVID-19 has caused a recent and widespread outbreak of respiratory illness.
Reported illnesses have ranged from very mild to severe, including illness resulting in death. Call your doctor or healthcare provider if you think you have been exposed to COVID-19 and develop a fever and symptoms of respiratory illness, such as cough, shortness of breath, or difficulty breathing.
How does it spread?
The virus is thought to spread mainly from person-to-person.
- Between people who are in close contact with one another
- Through respiratory droplets produced when an infected person coughs or sneezes.
How do you prevent it?
- Get a COVID-19 vaccine as soon as it is available to you.
- Wash your hands often with soap and water
- Avoid crowds, poorly ventilated indoor spaces and close contact with people who are sick
- Stay at home and call your doctor if you are sick
- COVID-19 can be spread by people who do not have symptoms so wear a mask in public
Who is at risk for developing serious complications?
- Older adults
- People with medical conditions, such as COPD, heart disease, obesity, and diabetes
What are the most common signs and symptoms?
- Cough, shortness of breath, or difficulty breathing
- Fever or chills
- Muscle or body aches
- Vomiting or diarrhea
- New loss of taste or smell
