Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is an illness caused by the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2). This contagious disease emerged globally in late 2019, leading to a worldwide pandemic. Understanding COVID-19, including how it spreads, its common symptoms, available management strategies, and effective prevention methods, is important for public health.
How COVID-19 Spreads
SARS-CoV-2 primarily spreads from person to person through respiratory droplets and airborne particles. When an infected individual breathes, talks, sings, coughs, or sneezes, they release these virus-containing particles into the air. Larger respiratory droplets do not travel far and can be inhaled or land on mucous membranes in the eyes, nose, or mouth.
Smaller aerosol particles can remain suspended in the air for minutes to hours and travel over longer distances, especially in poorly ventilated indoor spaces. The risk of transmission increases with closer contact and longer exposure to an infected person. Transmission can occur even from individuals who are pre-symptomatic or entirely asymptomatic. While less common, contact with contaminated surfaces is also a route of transmission.
Recognizing Infection
COVID-19 symptoms can vary widely among individuals, ranging from mild to severe. Common symptoms include fever, cough, fatigue, headache, sore throat, and a runny or stuffy nose. Additional symptoms include body aches, chills, shortness of breath, and digestive issues like diarrhea, nausea, or vomiting. A notable symptom for some individuals is the loss of taste or smell.
Symptoms usually begin within 2 to 14 days after exposure to the virus, with onset often within two to seven days. Diagnostic testing is available to confirm an infection. Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) tests detect the virus’s genetic material and are highly accurate. Rapid antigen tests, which identify viral proteins, provide quicker results and can be performed at home, though they are less accurate than PCR tests.
Managing the Illness
Most people with mild COVID-19 can manage their illness at home. Rest, adequate fluid intake, and over-the-counter medications like acetaminophen or ibuprofen can help relieve symptoms such as fever and body aches. Staying home and isolating from others is important to prevent further spread of the virus. Individuals should monitor their symptoms closely for any worsening signs.
Seek medical attention if symptoms worsen or if a person is at higher risk for severe illness. Emergency warning signs include trouble breathing, persistent chest pain or pressure, new confusion, difficulty staying awake, or pale, gray, or blue-colored skin, lips, or nail beds. For individuals at higher risk, such as those over 50 or with certain health conditions, early consultation with a doctor can help discuss potential antiviral treatments. These medications work best when taken within five days of symptom onset to help prevent severe illness and reduce hospitalization risk.
Preventing Infection
Several strategies can help reduce the risk of COVID-19 infection and its spread. Vaccination remains a primary measure for preventing severe illness. Staying up to date on vaccine doses offers protection from infection. Well-fitting masks reduce the inhalation and exhalation of infectious particles.
Practicing hand hygiene by regularly washing hands with soap and water or using an alcohol-based hand rub is effective. Improving ventilation in indoor spaces, such as opening windows or using air purifiers, can help disperse airborne viral particles. Avoiding crowded indoor environments and maintaining physical distance from others further minimizes exposure risk.