COVID-19 is a new disease, caused by a novel (or new) coronavirus that has not previously been seen in humans. Because it is a new virus, scientists are learning more each day. Although most people who have COVID-19 have mild symptoms, COVID-19 can also cause severe illness and even death. Some groups, including older adults and people who have certain underlying medical conditions, are at increased risk of severe illness.

Source: CDC

COVID-19 is thought to spread mainly through close contact from person to person, including between people who are physically near each other (within about 6 feet). The virus spreads primarily through droplets of saliva or discharge from the nose when an infected person coughs or sneezes.

Source: CDC

Important ways to slow the spread:
-Wear a mask that covers your nose and mouth.
-Stay 6 feet apart from others who are not in your household.
-Get a COVID-19 vaccine when it is available to you.
-Stay home when you are sick.
-Wash your hands often with soap and water. Use hand sanitizer if soap and water aren’t available.
-Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces

Source: CDC

People with COVID-19 have had a wide range of symptoms reported – ranging from mild symptoms to severe illness.

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

Source: CDC

If you are sick with COVID-19, follow the steps below to care for yourself and to help protect other people in your home and community.
-Stay at home except to get medical care.
-Get tested.
-Separate yourself from other people in your home. Choose a “Sick Room” to stay away from others in your home. Use a separate bathroom, if possible.
-Cover coughs & sneezes.
-Clean your hands often.
-Avoid sharing personal household items.
-Clean all “high-touch” surfaces everyday.
-Monitor your symptoms.
Stay at home

Source: CDC

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

*This list is not all possible symptoms. Please call your medical provider for any other symptoms that are severe or concerning to you.

Call 911 or call ahead to your local emergency facility: Notify the operator that you are seeking care for someone who has or may have COVID-19.

Source: CDC