Covid-19
Most people infected with the virus will experience mild to moderate respiratory illness and recover without requiring special treatment. However, some will become seriously ill and require medical attention. Older people and those with underlying medical conditions like cardiovascular disease, diabetes, chronic respiratory disease, or cancer are more likely to develop serious illness. Anyone can get sick with COVID-19 and become seriously ill or die at any age.
The best way to prevent and slow down transmission is to be well informed about the disease and how the virus spreads. Protect yourself and others from infection by staying at least 1 metre apart from others, wearing a properly fitted mask, and washing your hands or using an alcohol-based rub frequently. Get vaccinated when it’s your turn and follow local guidance.
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. It is important to practice respiratory etiquette, for example by coughing into a flexed elbow, and to stay home and self-isolate until you recover if you feel unwell.
Where do coronaviruses come from?
Coronaviruses are often found in bats, cats and camels. The viruses live in but don’t infect the animals. Sometimes these viruses then spread to different animal species. The viruses may change (mutate) as they transfer to other species. Eventually, the virus can jump from animal species and begin to infect humans. In the case of SARS-CoV-19, the first people infected are thought to have contracted the virus at a food market that sold meat, fish and live animals.
How do you get COVID-19?
SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes COVID-19, enters your body through your mouth, nose or eyes (directly from the airborne droplets or from the transfer of the virus from your hands to your face). It then travels to the back of your nasal passages and mucous membrane in the back of your throat. It attaches to cells there, begins to multiply and moves into lung tissue. From there, the virus can spread to other body tissues.
Symptoms of covid-19
Covid Symptoms 2024
Fever or Chills:
A common response to infection; some may experience fluctuations in body temperature.
Cough:
Usually a dry cough, but it can vary. Persistent coughing may occur.
Shortness of Breath:
This can range from mild to severe, especially in individuals with underlying health conditions.
Fatigue:
Many report extreme tiredness that can linger even after other symptoms have improved.
Muscle or Body Aches:
General discomfort and soreness, similar to what one might feel with the flu.
Headache:
Can vary in intensity and may be accompanied by other symptoms.
Loss of Taste or Smell:
This symptom can occur suddenly and may last for varying lengths of time.
Sore Throat:
Can feel scratchy or painful, often related to other upper respiratory symptoms.
Congestion or Runny Nose:
More common with certain variants, resembling a cold.
Nausea or Vomiting:
Less common but can occur, particularly in younger individuals.
Diarrhea:
Some individuals report gastrointestinal symptoms, including diarrhea.
What treatments do people receive if they have COVID-19?
Treatments for COVID-19 vary depending on the severity of your symptoms. If you’re not in the hospital or don’t need supplemental oxygen, no specific antiviral or immunotherapy is recommended.
Depending on the severity of your COVID symptoms, you may need:
Supplemental oxygen (given through tubing inserted into your nostrils).
Some people may benefit from an infusion of monoclonal antibodies.
Antiviral medications may reduce the risk of hospitalization and death in certain patients with COVID-19.
Mechanical ventilation (oxygen through a tube inserted down your trachea). You are given medications to keep you comfortable and sleepy as long as you’re receiving oxygen through a ventilator.
Extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO). You continue to receive treatment while a machine pumps your blood outside your body. It takes over the function of your body’s lungs and heart.
