During this coronavirus outbreak, it’s important to know all the facts and stay away from misleading information. What is COVID-19 and what are its symptoms?

COVID-19 is a coronavirus. Coronavirus is a large family of viruses that cause respiratory illnesses that can range from the common cold to the more serious diseases like  Middle East Respiratory Syndrome (MERS) and Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS). COVID-19 is the most recently discovered illness that is currently being spread globally. Its name is short for Coronavirus 2019.

The World Health Organization (WHO) describes the symptoms of COVID-19 as “fever, tiredness, and dry cough.” Some patients have reported aches, pains, nasal congestion, runny nose, sore throat or diarrhea. Many people, however, become infect but never display any symptoms and feel normal.

Roughly 80 percent of people recover from the disease without needing special medical treatment. About one in six cases, however, become serious and lead to difficultly breathing. Older people and those with underlying medical issues like high blood pressure, heart problems and diabetes are more likely to have their symptoms become more serious. Additionally, those who are immunocompromised are also more at risk for developing a serious case of COVID-19.

For more information, please visit websites for WHO or CDC for correct and unbiased facts about COVID-19.

For ways to stay safe during this outbreak, please read “Four ways to stay safe during COVID-19 outbreak.”

Sources: WHO and Health.com