UNDERSTANDING COVID-19

  • COVID-19 is spread by close person-to-person contact and over long distances through respiratory droplets from speaking, coughing or sneezing.
  • Symptoms may appear 2 to 14 days after exposure to the virus that causes COVID-19. A person does not have to have symptoms to spread the virus.
  • COVID-19 can only be diagnosed with a laboratory test done in person or at the home.
Graphic of virus cell

COVID-19 SYMPTOMS INCLUDE:

  • illustration of a man with a runny nose

    Congestion or runny nose

  • Coughing

    Cough

  • Icon of man cradling stomach

    Diarrhea

  • High temperature

    Fever or chills

  • Icon of man touching forehead in pain

    Headache

  • neck ache icon

    Muscle or body aches

  • Icon representing man who is ill

    Nausea or vomiting

  • Icon of man yawning.

    Fatigue

  • Icon of man with x over mouth

    New loss of taste or smell

  • Illustrated man experiencing difficulty breathing

    Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing

  • Icon of man with sore throat

    Sore throat

In some cases, it can lead to severe respiratory problems, kidney failure or death.

The Best Ways to Protect Yourself

  • an illustration of a syringe

    Get vaccinated for as soon as you are eligible.

  • Scrubbing hands with soap and water

    Frequently wash your hands with soap and water or use a hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol.

  • graphic of man wearing face mask

    Wear a face mask when in public to prevent the spread of the virus.

  • Man sneezing into a tissue

    Cough or sneeze into a tissue or bent elbow. Throw the tissue in the trash.

  • Two figured separated by a dotted line

    Stay at least 6 feet away from others.

  • Illustrated man sleeping in bed

    If you feel sick, stay home and contact your health care provider.

  • Man coughing into hand

    Do not touch your face without washing your hands first.

  • Avoid crowds and poorly ventilated spaces. Avoid indoor spaces that do not offer fresh air.

  • Disinfecting a countertop

    Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces.

WHEN TO SEEK MEDICAL HELP

  • Call 911 if you have an emergency.
  • If you feel sick, stay home and call your medical provider.
  • Call your health care provider if you have been near someone with COVID-19.
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