This is information taken from the WHO website in February 2020.
What is a Coronavirus?
Coronavirus is a large family of viruses that can cause disease in animals or humans. In humans are
several coronaviruses known to cause respiratory tract infections ranging from cold to more
serious diseases such as Middle East Respiratory Syndrome (MERS) and Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS). The most recently detected corona virus causes the COVID-19 virus disease.
What is COVID-19?
COVID-19 is the infectious disease caused by the most recently discovered coronavirus. This new virus and
disease was unknown before the outbreak began in Wuhan, China, in December 2019.
What does COVID-19 mean?
The name stands for: Corona virus disease – 2019
What are the symptoms of COVID-19?
The most common symptoms of COVID-19 are fever, fatigue and dry cough. Some patients may have aches and pains, nasal congestion, runny nose, sore throat or diarrhea. These symptoms are usually mild and begins gradually. Some people are infected but do not develop symptoms and do not feel sick. Most people (about 80%) recover from the disease without the need for special treatment. About 1 in 6 people who get COVID-19 become seriously ill and develop breathing difficulties. Older people and those with underlying medical problems such as high blood pressure, heart problems or diabetes are more likely to develop serious illness. About 2% of people with the disease have died so far. People with fever, cough and breathing difficulties should seek medical attention.
What can I do to protect myself and prevent the spread of infection?