What is COVID-19?
Coronaviruses are a type of virus. There are many different kinds, and
some cause disease. A newly identified type that emerged in China in December
2019, has caused a recent outbreak of respiratory illness now called COVID-19.
Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) is an infectious disease caused by a newly
discovered coronavirus.
Where the Name Comes From
- CO stands for “corona”
- VI stands for “virus”
- D stands for “disease”
- 19 stands for “2019”
- The reason we hear the word "novel" sometimes associated with
COVID-19 is because it is a "new", previously unidentified virus.
Most people infected with the COVID-19 virus will experience mild to moderate
respiratory illness and recover without requiring special treatment. Older
people, and those with underlying medical problems like cardiovascular
disease, diabetes, chronic respiratory disease, and cancer are more likely
to develop serious illness.
The best way to prevent and slow down transmission is be well informed
about the COVID-19 virus, the disease it causes and how it spreads. Protect
yourself and others from infection by washing your hands or using an alcohol-based
rub frequently and not touching your face.
The COVID-19 virus spreads primarily through droplets of saliva or discharge
from the nose when an infected person coughs or sneezes, so it’s
important that you also practice respiratory etiquette (for example, by
coughing into a flexed elbow).
At this time, there are no specific vaccines or treatments for COVID-19.
However, there are many ongoing clinical trials evaluating potential treatment.
Other Articles of Interest