what is covid 19

COVID-19, or coronavirus disease 2019, is a contagious illness caused by the virus SARS-CoV-2. It emerged at the end of 2019 and rapidly spread worldwide, leading to the COVID-19 pandemic. The disease primarily affects the respiratory system but can impact other parts of the body as well. Symptoms of COVID-19 can vary widely. Common symptoms include fever, fatigue, cough, difficulty breathing, loss of smell and taste, and body aches. Symptoms typically appear 2 to 14 days after exposure to the virus. Some people infected with the virus do not show any symptoms (asymptomatic), while others can range from mild to severe illness. Severe cases may involve respiratory failure and require hospitalization. Older adults and people with underlying health conditions are more at risk of severe disease and complications. COVID-19 spreads mainly through respiratory droplets when an infected person coughs, sneezes, talks, or breathes. The virus can also spread via contact with contaminated surfaces and airborne particles in poorly ventilated indoor spaces. People can be contagious even before symptoms start or if they never develop symptoms. Preventive measures include vaccination, wearing masks, maintaining physical distance, and practicing good hygiene. Treatments, including antiviral medications, are available and can reduce severity if given early. Some people experience long-lasting symptoms or complications known as long COVID, which can persist for months or longer after initial recovery. In summary, COVID-19 is an infectious disease caused by the SARS- CoV-2 virus with a range of symptoms and severity, primarily transmitted through respiratory droplets and airborne particles.