Featured: Stimulus Facts

COVID-19 is a respiratory system disease caused by the virus SARS-CoV-2. The virus which causes the disease if part of a larger viral designation Coronaviridae and is genetically similar to SARS-CoV which appeared in 2002 which means that this isn’t the first time we have seen a Coronavirus. The virus  infects the respiratory system and can cause serious complications for those infected, namely severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS).

Unfortunately, most people who are infected with the virus are afflicted mildly and may not show symptoms during the most active time in the virus’s life cycle (between 5-8 days). What does that mean? That means that when the virus is reproducing the most in someone’s body, they may not be showing symptoms and are unknowingly passing it along. This occurrence is known as asymptomatic transmission. So, even if you aren’t feeling sick, you should be careful to practice social distancing and hand washing.

The virus is most commonly spread through coughing or sneezing. Additionally, since the virus can survive on surfaces outside of the body for a while, it can be picked up off of surfaces and transmitted that way. It has also been noted that the virus can spread when a patient is recovering, but the degree of impact is, as of now, uncertain.

The most common symptoms of infection include fever, a dry cough (not productive) and shortness of breath. If you are experiencing these symptoms, you should contact your doctor and consult on further action. If you begin to exhibit serious symptoms like trouble breathing, persistent chest pain or increase in severity of the above, may need to seek emergency care.

The best thing that you can do to protect yourself and to help manage the spread of SARS-CoV-2, is by social distancing and washing your hands. If you suspect or feel that you may be getting sick, quarantine yourself to the best of your abilities and call your doctor for consultation.