Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) is an infectious disease caused by a new virus. The disease causes a flu-like illness with symptoms such as a cough, fever, and in more severe cases, difficulty breathing.
HOW IT SPREADS Coronavirus disease spreads primarily through contact with an infected person when they cough or sneeze. It also spreads when a person touches a surface or object that has the virus on it, then touches their eyes, nose, or mouth.
Those who are infected with COVID-19 may have little to no symptoms. You may not know you have symptoms of COVID-19 because they are similar to a cold or flu.
Symptoms may take up to 14 days to appear after exposure to COVID-19. This is the longest known incubation period for this disease. We are currently investigating if the virus can be transmitted to others if someone is not showing symptoms. While experts believe that it is possible, it is considered less common.
Symptoms have included:
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cough
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fever
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difficulty breathing
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pneumonia in both lungs
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Abdominal pain
In severe cases, you may need hospitalization, a ventilator or infection can lead to death.
PREVENTION:
Wash your hands frequently for 20 seconds
Avoid touching your face, nose, or eyes.
Avoid close contact with people who are unwell.