What is Covid-19?

The infectious condition known as coronavirus illness is caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus (COVID-19).

A mild to severe respiratory illness will be experienced by the majority of virus-infected people, who will recover without the need for special care. However, some people will get severe ailments and require medical attention. Elderly people and people with underlying medical conditions including cancer, diabetes, cardiovascular disease, or chronic respiratory problems are more likely to experience serious illness. COVID-19 has the potential to make anyone terribly ill or cause their death at any age.

Being knowledgeable about the illness and the virus’s propagation is the best strategy to stop or slow down transmission. By keeping a distance of at least one metre between people, donning a mask that fits properly, and often washing your hands or using an alcohol-based rub, you can prevent infection in both yourself and other people. When it’s your turn, get your vaccination, and abide by any local advice.

When an infected person coughs, sneezes, speaks, sings, or breathes, the virus can spread from their mouth or nose in minute liquid particles. From larger respiratory droplets to tiny aerosols, these particles are diverse. It’s crucial to use proper respiratory technique, such as coughing into a flexed elbow, and to confine yourself to your home and rest until you feel better.

The most typical COVID-19 signs and symptoms include:

• Dry cough
• Fever
• Always feeling tired

Other, less frequent symptoms that some people may experience include as follows:

• Loss of scent or flavour
• Nasal obstruction
• Conjunctivitis (also known as red eyes)
• Throat pain
• Headache
• Joint or muscle discomfort
• Diverse skin rash types
• Vomiting or nausea
• Diarrhea
• Dizziness or chills

Severe COVID-19 illness symptoms include:

• Breathing difficulties
• A decline in appetite
• Confusion
• Chest tightness or soreness that doesn’t go away
• High temperature (more than 38 °C)

Other, less typical signs include:

• Irritability
• Confusion
• Reduced awareness (sometimes associated with seizures)
• Anxiety
• Depression
• Sleep problems

Neurological conditions that are more severe and uncommon, include strokes, brain inflammation, delirium, and nerve damage.

All ages of people should get medical attention right once if they have a fever, cough, shortness of breath, pressure in the chest, or loss of speech or motor function. Call your healthcare practitioner, a helpline, or a hospital first, if at all feasible, so that you can be referred to the appropriate clinic.