Coronavirus (COVID-19) is an illness caused by a virus that can spread from person to person.
The virus that causes COVID-19 is a new coronavirus that has spread throughout the world.
You can become infected by coming into close contact (about 6 feet) with a person who has COVID-19.
You can become infected from respiratory droplets when an infected person coughs, sneezes, or talks.
You may also be able to get it by touching a surface or object that has the virus on it, and then by touching your mouth, nose, or eyes.
Symptoms of 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
*People with COVID-19 have reported a wide range of symptoms – ranging from mild symptoms to severe illness. Symptoms may appear 2-14 days after exposure to the virus.
How to stop the spread:
Stay home if you are sick, unless it is to get medical attention.
Stay home as much as possible and avoid close contact with others.
Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and face.
Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds.
Use an alcohol based hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol.
Clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces.
Always remain 6 feet from other people when you are out in public.
Don't forget to wear a mask!
How Covid affects older adults:
Among adults, the risk for severe illness from COVID-19 increases with age, with older adults being at the highest risk. For example, people in their 80's are at a higher risk for severe illness than people in their 50's. The greatest risk for severe illness from COVID-19 are those aged 85 or older. Severe illness means that the person with COVID-19 may require hospitalization, intensive care, or a ventilator to help them breathe. There are also other factors that can increase your risk for severe illness, such as having underlying medical conditions. The CDC has reported that 8 out of 10 COVID-19 deaths in the U.S. have been in adults aged 65 years or older.
Have seasonal allergies?
Sometimes seasonal allergies and COVID-19 can look very similar to one another, but they have their differences as well. For example, COVID-19 can cause fever, which is not a common symptom of seasonal allergies. Since it can be difficult to tell the difference between the two, you may need to get a test to confirm your diagnosis. Take a look at the diagram below to help distinguish between the symptoms:
