Important information you should know
COVID-19
COVID-19
Important information you should know
COVID-19
Coronavirus broadly refers to a type of virus that’s actually super common around the world. Most coronaviruses cause mild to moderate upper-respiratory tract illnesses, like the common cold. Most people get infected with one or more of these viruses at some point in their lives. COVID-19, however, is a novel (new strain) that wasn’t previously seen in humans. Therefore, we are still learning about the virus as we make every effort to protect ourselves.
Symptoms
Symptoms of COVID-19 commonly include fever, cough, sore throat or shortness of breath. Most people with COVID-19 have mild to moderate symptoms and fully recover without complications. Less commonly, COVID-19 may lead to pneumonia, hospitalization or death.
If you wake up feeling sick one day, don’t automatically assume you have coronavirus, get in touch with your physician, preferably from home if you can.
The biggest red flags that indicate something severe could be happening are shortness of breath (can you hold your breath for more than 10 seconds), a high fever (103) and a worsening cough. If you’re experiencing this, seek immediate medical attention.
Most At Harm
People who are at most risk for severe illness are older adults or those who have chronic health conditions, such as, but not limited to: Lung disease, Heart disease, Diabetes, Cancer, Asthma and a weakened immune system.
How It Spreads
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, but this is not thought to be the main way the virus spreads.
Prevention