What Is Coronavirus (COVID-19)?
The new coronavirus, COVID-19, is a contagious disease that causes respiratory illness and can be spread just like the common cold or the flu.
Signs and Symptoms
- Dry cough
- Fever
- Shortness of breath
- Fatigue
- Aches and pains
If you have mild symptoms and are otherwise healthy, self-isolate and contact your medical provider or a COVID-19 information line for advice. If you have a fever, cough or difficulty breathing, call your doctor and seek medical attention right away.
Visit the CDC for more information about COVID-19 symptoms, testing or to use their free symptom checker.
Habits to Protect Yourself and Others From Illness
If you don’t have symptoms, you can you still spread COVID-19 to others. Many cases of COVID-19 are asymptomatic, meaning you can be a carrier but show no symptoms.
Protect yourself and others from illness with these simple preventive measures:
- Follow the guidelines set by local and national authorities.
- Wash your hands often — and for at least 20 seconds — with soap and water. An alcohol-based sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol can help in the absence of soap and water.
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands.
- Stay home and limit contact with others if you're not feeling well.
- Cover your mouth when you cough, or sneeze into a tissue and throw the tissue in the trash.
- Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces such as television remotes, mobile phones, earphones, desk surfaces and your computer mouse, door handles and knobs.
- Focus on daily self-care habits to support a healthy immune system. Eat a balanced diet, get adequate sleep, maintain an exercise routine, manage stress and minimize alcohol consumption.
Additional COVID-19 Resources and Information
There is new information coming out daily about COVID-19. Avoid unverified news sites or social media and stay up to date with trusted resources, such as:
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