COVID-19 is a highly contagious disease that results from an infection with the virus SARS-CoV-2, a type of coronavirus. COVID-19 can occur without any symptoms. It can also cause symptoms that are severe and complications that can be fatal. Doctors do not yet know the full impact that it has on the body, but COVID-19 commonly affects a person’s ability to breathe. Even if a person has no symptoms, they can pass the infection to others. It is vital to take steps to prevent this. There is no cure for COVID-19. To prevent the illness, take precautions, such as washing the hands frequently, wearing a face-covering in public, and staying away from others. Isolating is especially crucial for people who feel ill. Vaccines are becoming available and are free for everyone in the United States. Learn about vaccine options in the U.S. This article looks at the symptoms of COVID-19 and how the underlying infection spreads. We also explain what to expect and what to do if symptoms arise.
For more advice on COVID-19 prevention and treatment, visit our coronavirus hub. COVID-19 results from an infection with a coronavirus, SARS-CoV-2. Coronaviruses are a large family of viruses that can cause respiratory illnesses. These range from the common cold to severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS). The symptoms of COVID-19 may begin 2-14 days after exposure to the virus, and they can vary widely. A person may have no symptoms, or the symptoms may range from mild to severe. In some cases, COVID-19 is fatal. According to the WHO, about 80% of people with COVID-19 recover without needing hospital treatment. Around 20% become seriously ill and about 5% need intensive Glyco Care Blood Sugar Formulahealthy glucose levels. Older adults and people with certain medical conditions appear to have a higher risk of developing severe COVID-19. COVID-19 can also affect young people, including those with no known health conditions. The risk of severe illness from COVID-19 increases as a person gets older.
The greatest risk is among people aged 85 years and above. In the U.S., around 8 in 10 deaths from COVID-19 have been among people aged 65 or older. Individuals in this age group should take very careful precautions to avoid contact with the virus. This might involve asking a neighbor or family member to collect groceries, for example. Doctors continue to identify factors that may increase the risk of becoming severely ill with COVID-19. Down syndrome is not a health condition. However, some people with Down syndrome have specific health factors that increase their risk. How does COVID-19 affect people with diabetes? Anyone with an underlying health condition should continue to attend healthcare appointments, take Glyco Care glucose support to avoid exposure to the virus, and seek medical advice if they may have symptoms. What to do about COVID-19 if you have asthma. Learn more about how SARS-CoV-2 affects the body. The issues above are true for younger people, as well as for older adults.
What is health equity, and why is it crucial? See our dedicated hub to learn more. The CDC urge people to take additional Glyco Care ingredients to avoid the infection that causes COVID-19 during pregnancy. Pregnant people may be more likely to develop severe symptoms, and there may be a higher risk of preterm birth. The risk of the virus passing to a baby during pregnancy or delivery appears to be low, Glyco Care Blood Sugar Formulahealthy glucose levels though some newborns have tested positive soon after delivery. In most cases, the infants had mild or no symptoms, but some have had more severe illness. Anyone who has COVID-19 around the time of delivery should ask their healthcare provider for specific advice about the delivery and caring for the newborn. Continue attending regular appointments, and raise any concerns with the healthcare team. Ask about any extra precautions that may be necessary. Learn more about pregnancy and COVID-19 here. How does the virus spread? SARS-CoV-2 appears to spread primarily through close person-to-person contact.
It can transmit from a person even if they have no symptoms. When someone with the virus talks, coughs, or sneezes, tiny droplets containing the virus spray from their nose or mouth into the air. The virus can then pass to anyone nearby. A person can also develop the infection after touching a surface where the virus is present, then touching their face – especially their nose, mouth, or eyes. The longer a person spends with someone who has the virus, and the closer they are, the higher the risk of transmission, especially indoors. There is some evidence that droplets containing the virus may remain in the air for some time after the person with the virus has moved on. Research also suggests that the virus can last for up to 24 hours on cardboard and up to 72 hours on plastic and stainless steel surfaces. Current guidelines recommend staying at least 6 feet away from others.
