COVID-19 is a respiratory illness caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus. The infection can range from having no symptoms to causing mild, moderate, or severe illness. Most people with mild illness can recover with appropriate supportive care, while people at higher risk of severe disease may require early medical evaluation and treatment.

Common Symptoms

• Fever or chills
• Cough
• Sore throat
• Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing
• Fatigue
• Headache
• Muscle or body aches
• Runny or blocked nose
• Nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea
• Loss or change of taste or smell

Diagnosis

COVID-19 can be diagnosed using viral tests such as molecular tests, including PCR or other nucleic acid amplification tests, and antigen tests. A chest X-ray or CT scan alone is not generally used to diagnose COVID-19, although imaging may be useful when evaluating complications or the severity of illness.

Who Is at Higher Risk?

The risk of severe COVID-19 increases with age and may also be higher in people with certain underlying medical conditions, including chronic lung disease, heart disease, or a weakened immune system. Early medical assessment is particularly important for people who have risk factors for severe illness.

Treatment and Management

People with mild COVID-19 may be able to recover at home with supportive care and symptom management. For people at increased risk of severe illness, antiviral treatments may reduce the risk of hospitalization and death. These treatments work best when started as soon as possible and within the recommended treatment window after symptoms begin.

Prevention

• Stay up to date with recommended COVID-19 vaccinations
• Practice good hand and respiratory hygiene
• Improve indoor ventilation and maintain cleaner air
• Stay home and away from others when experiencing respiratory symptoms
• Consider masking and distancing when appropriate
• Get tested when COVID-19 is suspected, particularly if you are at higher risk

When to Seek Medical Attention

Seek medical advice promptly if you develop COVID-19 symptoms and have risk factors for severe illness, as early treatment may be beneficial. Emergency medical attention is required for severe difficulty breathing, persistent chest pain or pressure, new confusion, inability to wake or stay awake, or pale, gray, or blue discoloration of the lips, skin, or nail beds.

Recovery and Follow-Up

Recovery time varies from person to person. Some individuals may continue to experience symptoms after the initial infection and may require further medical evaluation. Follow-up should be considered when respiratory symptoms persist, worsen, or interfere with normal daily activities.