What are Coronaviruses?
Coronaviruses (CoV) are a large family of viruses that can cause illness ranging from the common cold to more severe diseases such as Middle East Respiratory Syndrome (MERS-CoV) and Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS-CoV). COVID-19 is the disease caused by the novel coronavirus SARS-CoV-2, which was first detected in late 2019. COVID-19 continues to circulate worldwide with new variants emerging.
How does COVID-19 spread?
COVID-19 spreads mainly from person to person through respiratory droplets and aerosols when an infected person coughs, sneezes, talks, or breathes. It can also spread through close contact with contaminated surfaces, though this is less common. Transmission risk is higher in crowded or poorly ventilated spaces.
What are the symptoms of COVID-19?
Symptoms can range from mild to severe illness and usually appear 2–14 days after exposure. Common symptoms include:
- Fever or chills.
- Cough, shortness of breath, or difficulty breathing.
- Fatigue.
- Muscle or body aches, headache.
- Sore throat.
- Loss of taste or smell.
- Congestion or runny nose.
- Nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea.
If you develop severe symptoms such as difficulty breathing, chest pain, confusion, or bluish lips/face, seek medical help immediately.
Key Actions for COVID-19 Prevention
- Get vaccinated and receive recommended booster doses.
- Practice hand hygiene: Wash hands with soap and water for at least 40–60 seconds or use hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol.
- Cover mouth or nose while coughing and sneezing with a tissue or your elbow.
- Wear a mask in crowded or poorly ventilated areas when respiratory viruses are circulating.
- Maintain safe distance (at least 1.5 meters) from people showing symptoms of illness.
- Stay home if you are sick and follow public health guidance.
- Clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces regularly.
- Ensure good ventilation in indoor settings.
Instructions if you have confirmed or suspected COVID-19
- Stay at home and isolate yourself from others as much as possible.
- Use a separate room and bathroom if available.
- Inform healthcare providers before visiting clinics or hospitals.
- Monitor your symptoms and seek medical help if they worsen.
- Wear a mask when around others.
- Avoid sharing household items such as dishes, towels, and bedding.
- Clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces daily.
References
- World Health Organization (WHO). https://www.who.int/emergencies/diseases/novel-coronavirus-2019
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/index.html
- Saudi Ministry of Health (MOH). COVID-19 Guidelines
https://www.moh.gov.sa/en/HealthAwareness/EducationalContent/PublicHealth/Pages/corona.aspx
