Coronavirus disease 2019

Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19)

Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is an infectious disease caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus. Pronounced as /koʊrəˈnaɪrəs diːˈziːz 2019/ (kor-uh-NAHY-ruhs dee-ZEEZ 2019). The name is derived from the family of viruses known as coronaviruses, the year when it was first identified (2019), and the type of disease it causes.

Etymology

The term "coronavirus" comes from the Latin corona, meaning crown or halo, which refers to the characteristic appearance of the virus particles. The disease was named "COVID-19" by the WHO on 11 February 2020. The CO stands for corona, VI for virus, D for disease, and 19 for the year it was first identified.

Symptoms

Symptoms of COVID-19 are variable, but often include fever, cough, and shortness of breath. Other symptoms may include fatigue, muscle pain, diarrhea, sore throat, loss of smell, and loss of taste.

Transmission

COVID-19 is primarily spread between people during close contact, most often via small droplets produced by coughing, sneezing, or talking. It can also spread by touching a contaminated surface and then touching the face.

Prevention

Preventive measures include social distancing, wearing face masks in public settings, washing hands with soap and water often and for at least 20 seconds, cleaning and disinfecting frequently touched objects and surfaces, and monitoring and self-isolation for people exposed or symptomatic.

Treatment

Treatment is primarily symptomatic. Vaccines have been developed and are in use to prevent the disease.

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Coronavirus disease 2019