The disease caused by the novel coronavirus first identified in Wuhan, China, has been named coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) – 'CO' stands for corona, 'VI' for the virus and 'D' for the disease. Formerly, this disease was referred to as '2019 novel coronavirus' or '2019-nCoV'.
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What COVID-19 means, its cause, symptoms, and prevention to stay alive
Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) is an infectious disease caused by a newly discovered coronavirus.
COVID-19
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Most people who fall sick with COVID-19 will experience mild to moderate symptoms and recover without special treatment.
The virus that causes COVID-19 is mainly transmitted through droplets generated when an infected person coughs, sneezes, or exhales and these droplets are too heavy to hang in the air and quickly fall on floors or surfaces.
You can be infected by breathing in the virus if you are within close proximity of someone who has COVID-19, or by touching a contaminated surface and then your eyes, nose, or mouth.
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Symptoms can include fever, cough, and shortness of breath. In more severe cases, an infection can cause pneumonia or breathing difficulties. More rarely, the disease can be fatal.
These symptoms are similar to the flu (influenza) or the common cold, which are a lot more common than COVID-19. This is why testing is required to confirm if someone has COVID-19.
Protect yourself and others around you by knowing the facts and taking appropriate precautions. Follow the advice provided by your local public health agency.
To prevent the spread of COVID-19, clean your hands often. Use soap and water, or an alcohol-based hand rub.
Maintain a safe distance from anyone who is coughing or sneezing.
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Don’t touch your eyes, nose, or mouth.
Cover your nose and mouth with your bent elbow or a tissue when you cough or sneeze.
Stay home if you feel unwell.
If you have a fever, a cough, and difficulty breathing, seek medical attention. Call in advance.
Follow the directions of your local health authority.
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Avoiding unneeded visits to medical facilities allows healthcare systems to operate more effectively, therefore protecting you and others.
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