Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19)

Overview

A new coronavirus was identified as the cause of a disease outbreak that began in China in 2019. The virus is called severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), and the disease is called coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). It mainly spreads from close person to person contact.

Symptoms

Common symptoms of infection with COVID-19 can include a fever, cough, shortness of breath or difficulty breathing. Symptoms may appear two to 14 days after exposure and can range in severity from very mild to severe. Some people have no symptoms. Older adults and those with chronic medical conditions seem to be more at risk for severe illness.

Treatments

No antiviral medication is currently recommended to treat COVID-19. However, symptoms can be treated with pain relievers, cough medication, rest and fluids. Very ill people may need to be treated in the hospital.