Overview
COVID-19 is a contagious respiratory illness caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus. First identified in late 2019, it has caused a global pandemic, leading to a range of symptoms from mild cold-like illness to severe pneumonia and death.
Symptoms
Fever or chills Cough Shortness of breath Fatigue Loss of taste or smell Muscle aches, sore throat, headache Gastrointestinal symptoms (nausea, diarrhoea)
Causes
Infection with SARS-CoV-2 virus via respiratory droplets Close contact with infected individuals Airborne transmission in poorly ventilated spaces Surface contact transmission (less common)
Diagnosis
PCR tests (gold standard) Rapid antigen tests Chest imaging for severe cases
Treatment
Supportive care (rest, fluids, fever control) Antiviral drugs (e.g., remdesivir) Oxygen therapy for severe cases Corticosteroids for certain patients Hospitalisation if severe breathing difficulty
Complications
Pneumonia Acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) Blood clots Multi-organ failure Long COVID
Prevention
Vaccination Mask wearing in high-risk settings Good hand hygiene Physical distancing during outbreaks Ventilating indoor spaces