COVID-19 is a disease caused by a new strain of coronavirus.
'CO' stands for corona, 'VI' for virus, and 'D' for disease, 19 - discovered in 2019.
The name of the virus is severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2). Before, it was called 2019-nCoV.
COVID-19 is an infectious disease. One does not have to say COVID-19 infection. It is enough to say COVID-19 as the 'D' already stands for disease (or infection).
COVID-19 affects different people in different ways. Most infected people will develop mild to moderate illness and recover without hospitalization. Some would develop severe illness.
Most common symptoms:
fever
dry cough
tiredness
Less common symptoms:
aches and pains
sore throat
diarrhoea
conjunctivitis
headache
loss of taste or smell
a rash on skin, or discolouration of fingers or toes
Serious symptoms:
difficulty breathing or shortness of breath
chest pain or pressure
loss of speech or movement
Seek immediate medical attention if you have serious symptoms. Always call before visiting your doctor or health facility.
People with mild symptoms who are otherwise healthy should manage their symptoms at home.
On average it takes 5–6 days from when someone is infected with the virus for symptoms to show, however it can take up to 14 days.