COVID-19 (coronavirus disease 2019) is a disease caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus. The SARS-CoV-2 virus is constantly undergoing small genetic changes, these changes lead to new variants. COVID-19 spreads quickly and is very contagious. COVID-19 is often associated with respiratory symptoms that are similar to other seasonal viruses although other parts of the body may also be affected by the infection. People with COVID-19 may have mild or severe illness.
Symptoms:
The following list does not include all possible symptoms. Symptoms may change with new COVID-19 variants and can vary depending on vaccination status. Possible symptoms include:
- Fever or chills
- Cough
- Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing
- Sore throat
- Congestion or runny nose
- New loss of taste or smell
- Fatigue
- Muscle or body aches
- Headache
- Nausea or vomiting
- Diarrhea
Transmission:
COVID-19 spreads when respiratory droplets released when an infected person breathes out or coughs come in contact with the eyes, nose, or mouth of a person who is susceptible to infection. A person may also be infected if they inhale droplets or particles that contain the virus. Even people who do not have symptoms can spread COVID-19.
Prevention:
A COVID-19 vaccine is the first step to prevent severe health outcomes. Antiviral treatments are not a replacement for COVID-19 vaccinations.
COVID-19 vaccines available in the United States effectively protect people from getting seriously ill, being hospitalized, and even dying. As with vaccines for other diseases, you are protected best when you stay up to date.
People with weakened immune systems, who are at higher risk for severe COVID-19 and might have decreased response to vaccination, may require additional doses of COVID-19 vaccine.
Alongside vaccination, practicing core prevention strategies like good hygiene, taking steps for cleaner air, and staying home when sick is vital in preventing the spread of COVID-19.
Treatment and Care:
FDA has authorized or approved several antiviral medications used to treat mild to moderate COVID-19 in people who are more likely to get very sick.
- Antiviral medications target specific parts of the virus to stop it from multiplying in the body once someone is infected, helping to prevent severe illness and death.
- The Infectious Diseases Society of America provides Guidelines on the Treatment and Management of Patients with COVID-19 for healthcare providers to help them work with their patients and determine the best treatment options for their patients. Several treatment options are available for treating COVID-19.
Some treatments might have side effects or interact with other medications you are taking. Side effects vary for each medication. For example, Paxlovid can cause a metallic taste in your mouth which goes away when you stop taking the medication. Paxlovid is more likely to interact with other medications than other COVID-19 antivirals, but most people can still take it. Check with your healthcare provider or pharmacist if you are taking other medications to make sure that COVID-19 treatments can be safely taken at the same time.
If you are hospitalized, your healthcare provider might use other types of medications, depending on how sick you are. These could include medications to treat the virus, reduce an overactive immune response, or treat COVID-19 complications.
If you have a weakened immune system, have received antiviral treatment, and continue to experience COVID-19 symptoms, your healthcare provider may recommend additional treatment, including convalescent plasma.