Understanding Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19)
Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is an infectious disease caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus. Most people infected with the virus will experience mild to moderate respiratory illness and recover without requiring special treatment. However, some will become seriously ill and require medical attention.
How COVID-19 Spreads
COVID-19 spreads when an infected person breathes out droplets and very small particles that contain the virus. Other people can breathe in these droplets and particles, or these droplets and particles can land on others’ eyes, nose, or mouth. In some circumstances, these droplets may contaminate the surfaces they touch. Anyone infected with COVID-19 can spread it, even if they do NOT have symptoms.
Symptoms of COVID-19
COVID-19 most often causes respiratory symptoms that can feel much like a cold, the flu, or pneumonia. COVID-19 may attack more than your lungs and respiratory system. Other parts of your body may also be affected by the disease. Most people with COVID-19 have mild symptoms, but some people become severely ill.
Risk Factors for Severe Illness
Some people are more likely than others to get very sick if they get COVID-19. This includes people who: are older, are immunocompromised (have a weakened immune system), have certain disabilities, or have underlying health conditions.
Prevention and Protection
People who are up to date with their COVID-19 vaccine have lower risk of severe illness. Learn how to protect yourself from COVID-19 by understanding how it spreads and taking preventive measures.
Testing and Treatment
Learn what you need to know about COVID-19 testing. Learn about the types of COVID-19 treatments, symptom management and recovery.
Long COVID
Post-COVID Conditions – also called “Long COVID” – describes the basics of Long COVID, including who is at risk and steps to help prevent it.
Variants
Viruses are constantly changing, including the virus that causes COVID-19.
Global Impact
As of June 1, 2024, nearly 1.2 million people have died of COVID-19 in the U.S.
Monitoring the Situation
The World Health Organization (WHO) utilizes various sources to continue monitoring the COVID-19 epidemiological situation via the WHO COVID-19 dashboard.
Conclusion
Understanding COVID-19, how it spreads, and the steps to protect yourself and others is essential for navigating the ongoing pandemic. Staying informed through reliable sources like the CDC and WHO ensures you have the most accurate information to make informed decisions about your health.
Understanding Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19)
Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is an infectious disease caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus. Most people infected with the virus will experience mild to moderate respiratory illness and recover without requiring special treatment. However, some will become seriously ill and require medical attention.
How COVID-19 Spreads
COVID-19 spreads when an infected person breathes out droplets and very small particles that contain the virus. Other people can breathe in these droplets and particles, or these droplets and particles can land on others’ eyes, nose, or mouth. In some circumstances, these droplets may contaminate the surfaces they touch. Anyone infected with COVID-19 can spread it, even if they do NOT have symptoms.
Symptoms of COVID-19
COVID-19 most often causes respiratory symptoms that can feel much like a cold, the flu, or pneumonia. COVID-19 may attack more than your lungs and respiratory system. Other parts of your body may also be affected by the disease. Most people with COVID-19 have mild symptoms, but some people become severely ill.
Risk Factors for Severe Illness
Some people are more likely than others to get very sick if they get COVID-19. This includes people who: are older, are immunocompromised (have a weakened immune system), have certain disabilities, or have underlying health conditions.
Prevention and Protection
People who are up to date with their COVID-19 vaccine have lower risk of severe illness. Learn how to protect yourself from COVID-19 by understanding how it spreads and taking preventive measures.
Testing and Treatment
Learn what you need to know about COVID-19 testing. Learn about the types of COVID-19 treatments, symptom management, and recovery.
Long COVID
Post-COVID Conditions – also called “Long COVID” – describes the basics of Long COVID, including who is at risk and steps to help prevent it.
Variants
Viruses are constantly changing, including the virus that causes COVID-19.
Global Impact
As of June 1, 2024, nearly 1.2 million people have died of COVID-19 in the U.S.
Monitoring the Situation
The World Health Organization (WHO) utilizes various sources to continue monitoring the COVID-19 epidemiological situation via the WHO COVID-19 dashboard.
Conclusion
Understanding COVID-19, how it spreads, and the steps to protect yourself and others is essential for navigating the ongoing pandemic. Staying informed through reliable sources like the CDC and WHO ensures you have the most accurate information to make informed decisions about your health.