About Coronavirus (COVID-19) And Symptoms

About Coronavirus (COVID-19 And Symptoms

Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) is an infectious disease caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus.

Most people who fall sick with COVID-19 will experience mild to moderate symptoms and recover without special treatment. However, some will become seriously ill and require medical attention.


HOW IT SPREADS

The virus can spread from an infected person’s mouth or nose in small liquid particles when they cough, sneeze, speak, sing or breathe. These particles range from larger respiratory droplets to smaller aerosols.

You can be infected by breathing in the virus if you are near someone who has COVID-19, or by touching a contaminated surface and then your eyes, nose or mouth. The virus spreads more easily indoors and in crowded settings.


SYMPTOMS

COVID-19 affects different people in different ways. Most infected people will develop mild to moderate illness and recover without hospitalization.

Most common symptoms:

  • • fever
  • • cough
  • • tiredness
  • • loss of taste or smell
Less common symptoms:
  • • sore throat
  • • headache
  • • aches and pains
  • • diarrhoea
  • • a rash on skin, or discolouration of fingers or toes
  • • red or irritated eyes

Serious symptoms:

  • • difficulty breathing or shortness of breath
  • • loss of speech or mobility, or confusion
  • • chest pain

Seek immediate medical attention if you have serious symptoms. Always call before visiting your doctor or health facility.

People with mild symptoms who are otherwise healthy should manage their symptoms at home.

On average it takes 5–6 days from when someone is infected with the virus for symptoms to show, however it can take up to 14 days.


PREVENTION

Protect yourself and others around you by knowing the facts and taking appropriate precautions. Follow advice provided by your local health authority.

Check with your local health authority for the most relevant guidance for your region.

To prevent the spread of COVID-19:

  • • Maintain a safe distance from others (at least 1 metre), even if they don’t appear to be sick.
  • • Wear a mask in public, especially indoors or when physical distancing is not possible.
  • • Choose open, well-ventilated spaces over closed ones. Open a window if indoors.
  • • Clean your hands often. Use soap and water, or an alcohol-based hand rub.
  • • Get vaccinated when it’s your turn. Follow local guidance about vaccination.
  • • Cover your nose and mouth with your bent elbow or a tissue when you cough or sneeze.
  • • Stay home if you feel unwell.

If you have a fever, cough and difficulty breathing, seek medical attention. Call in advance so your healthcare provider can direct you to the right health facility. This protects you, and prevents the spread of viruses and other infections.

Masks

Properly fitted masks can help prevent the spread of the virus from the person wearing the mask to others. Masks alone do not protect against COVID-19, and should be combined with physical distancing and hand hygiene. Follow the advice provided by your local health authority.


For informational purposes only. Consult your local medical authority for advice.

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