COVID-19 is the infectious disease caused by the most recently discovered coronavirus. This new virus and disease were unknown before the outbreak began in Wuhan, China, in December 2019.
The most common symptoms of COVID-19 are fever, tiredness, and dry cough. Some patients may have aches and pains, nasal congestion, runny nose, sore throat or diarrhea. These symptoms are usually mild and begin gradually. Some people become infected but don’t develop any symptoms and don't feel unwell. Most people (about 80%) recover from the disease without needing special treatment. Around 1 out of every 6 people who gets COVID-19 becomes seriously ill and develops difficulty breathing. Older people, and those with underlying medical problems like high blood pressure, heart problems or diabetes, are more likely to develop serious illness. People with fever, cough and difficulty breathing should seek medical attention.
You can reduce your chances of being infected or spreading COVID-19 by taking some simple precautions: regularly clean your hands with an alcohol-based hand rub or wash them with soap and water; maintain at least 1 metre (3 feet) distance between yourself and anyone who is coughing or sneezing; avoid touching eyes, nose and mouth; cover your mouth and nose with your bent elbow or tissue when you cough or sneeze; dispose of the used tissue immediately; stay home if you feel unwell; if you have a fever, cough and difficulty breathing, seek medical attention and call in advance; follow the directions of your local health authority; keep up to date on the latest COVID-19 hotspots (cities or local areas where COVID-19 is spreading widely); if possible, avoid traveling to places – especially if you are an older person or have diabetes, heart or lung disease.
Coded by Júlia Piton