Covid-19 is a novel coronavirus that was first identified in 2019. It is similar to SARS-CoV, the virus that caused the 2002-2004 SARS pandemic. As of June 2019, only a limited number of cases have been identified in people in the Middle East, all of whom have since recovered. However, on January 30, 2020, the World Health Organization declared Covid-19 a Public Health Emergency of International Concern after it spread from China to multiple other countries, including the United States.
Covid-19 is thought to spread primarily through respiratory droplets when an infected person coughs or sneezes. These droplets can then land in the mouths or noses of people who are nearby and cause them to become infected with the virus. It is also possible for someone to touch a surface that has been contaminated with these respiratory droplets and then touch their own mouth or nose, which would also lead to infection. There is currently no vaccine or treatment available for Covid-19; however, researchers are working hard to develop both.
If you think you may have been exposed to Covid-19 or are experiencing symptoms such as fever, coughing and difficulty breathing, it is important to seek medical attention right away. Early diagnosis and treatment can improve your chances of recovery and help prevent the virus from spreading further.