COVID-19
It is essential to differentiate between the terms “COVID-19”, “SARS-CoV-2”, and “coronavirus”. The virus identified in China in December 2019 is officially named “SARS-CoV-2”, which stands for “severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2”. It belongs to the coronavirus family.
The term “COVID-19” refers to the disease caused by the virus. The acronym stands for “CO” (corona), “VI” (virus), and “D” (disease).
Symptoms of COVID-19 vary and can be severe:
- Cough
- Fever or chills
- Headaches, fatigue, body aches
- Loss of taste and smell
- Difficulty breathing requiring ICU care
Most infected individuals recover with rest and without specific treatment. Elderly individuals and those with underlying health issues, such as cardiovascular or respiratory conditions, are at a higher risk of developing severe forms of the disease.
The virus spreads primarily through airborne droplets from the saliva or nasal secretions of an infected person (when sneezing or coughing). It can also spread through contact with contaminated surfaces or infected hands. When breathed in or brought to the mouth, these particles trigger the infection.