COVID-19

What Is COVID-19?

COVID-19 is the infectious respiratory disease responsible for the 2020 global pandemic. While COVID rates have decreased since 2020, the virus is still circulating. COVID is highly contagious, and the severity of symptoms can often depend on the variant of the virus and the person’s medical conditions. In most cases, COVID cases are mild. However, severe cases can occur, especially when there are underlying conditions such as heart disease or lung disease. 

While COVID primarily affects the respiratory system, the disease also can cause cardiologic and neurological issues. 

Long COVID

In rare cases, COVID symptoms can persist beyond the standard two-week recovery period. When COVID symptoms are present for at least three months, the patient may be experiencing what is called long COVID. People with underlying health conditions and adults 65 and older have a higher risk for developing long COVID. 

COVID Vaccines

Vaccination currently offers the best protection against COVID-19. If you have yet to receive your first dose, please talk to your doctor about vaccine options. If you’re already fully vaccinated, you can receive additional protection by getting a booster shot. Boosted individuals have proven to be more resistant to the effects of new variants.

Causes

The COVID-19 virus is primarily spread through droplets from coughs and sneezes or from touching objects that have been contaminated with the virus.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) suggest staying at least three feet away from anyone who appears to be sick. It takes about five days after being exposed to COVID for symptoms to develop. The incubation period ranges from 1-14 days. 

It is possible for animals to transmit COVID to people. However, the risk is very low.

Signs and Symptoms

Symptoms of COVID are similar to those of other respiratory viruses such as influenza. COVID symptoms can show within two to 14 days of being exposed to the virus. 

Common symptoms include:

• Aches and pains
• Cough (often a dry cough) 
• Diarrhea
• Fatigue
• Fever 
• Headache 
• Nasal congestion
• Runny nose
• Shortness of breath 
• Sore throat 

If you have a severe case, you may develop these symptoms after a few days: 

• Abnormal blood tests 
• Kidney failure
• Liver failure
• Low oxygen levels
• Pneumonia
• Significant shortness of breath 

If you have symptoms of a severe COVID case, contact your doctor and seek medical attention immediately. 

Diagnosis 

If you have COVID symptoms, it’s important to get tested as quickly as possible. COVID is a highly contagious disease, and you should distance yourself from others while awaiting results. 

At-Home Tests

Since the 2020 pandemic, accurate COVID testing kits have been made available for people to use at home. Antigen tests can usually produce results in as little as 15-30 minutes and are available over the counter at most pharmacies. If you have COVID symptoms, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration recommends using multiple negative antigen tests to confirm the absence of a COVID infection. When using home tests, it’s important to read instructions thoroughly. Learn more information on at-home testing by visiting the CDC’s COVID testing web site. 

Lab Tests

The gold standard tests for COVID are called nucleic acid amplification tests (NAATs). These tests are highly accurate and can be performed at most doctors’ offices. After a sample has been taken using a swab, usually from your nose, your sample will be taken to a laboratory for testing. Results tend to be available in 1-3 days. However, some NAATs can be performed at onsite labs to generate faster results. While you are waiting for test results, stay home and away from other people. Use a mask if you have to go out in public.

Learn more about COVID testing on the CDC’s COVID testing web site.

Treatment

Treatment for COVID depends on the severity of illness. For mild cases, rest and hydration, along with certain cold and flu medicines, are a good way to ensure a faster recovery. In more severe cases of COVID, more significant intervention, such as hospitalization, may be needed. 

Medications

Over the Counter

For mild cases of COVID, over-the-counter medicines can help ease symptoms and speed up recovery time. These include:

• Acetaminophen (Tylenol)
• Cough suppressants
• Ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin)
• Oral decongestants
• Saline nasal spray
• Throat lozenges

Antivirals

When there’s a risk of severe infection, certain antiviral medications have proven to be effective. These include:

• Molnupiravir (Lagevrio®)
• Nirmatrelvir with Ritonavir (Paxlovid®)
• Remdesivir (Veklury®)

Lifestyle Management

Stay home if you have cold-like symptoms or suspect you may have COVID. Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when you cough or sneeze, then throw the tissue in the trash and wash your hands. Clean and disinfect objects and surfaces that you touch. Avoid close contact with others and stay home while you are sick. Drink plenty of liquids and get extra rest. Contact your doctor with any concerns.

Please refer to current CDC) guidelines for updates on masking and safety protocols.

Clinical Trials

Clinical trials help determine new treatment options for diseases and conditions. Patients with long COVID have access to clinical trials and should speak with their physician to determine what trials might work best for them.