COVID-19
COVID-19 is a contagious respiratory illness caused by a coronavirus. It spreads easily and can cause symptoms ranging from mild cold-like illness to severe disease. Early testing, treatment and prevention help reduce complications and protect others.
What Is COVID-19?
COVID-19 is an infectious disease caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus. The virus affects the respiratory system and can spread from person to person through close contact. Some people develop mild symptoms, while others may experience severe illness or complications.
What Causes COVID?
COVID is caused by infection with the SARS-CoV-2 virus. The virus spreads through:
- Respiratory droplets from coughing, sneezing or talking
- Close contact with an infected person
- Touching contaminated surfaces and then touching the face
What Are the Symptoms of COVID?
COVID symptoms usually appear two to 14 days after exposure. Common symptoms include:
- Fever or chills
- Cough
- Shortness of breath
- Fatigue
- Headache
- Sore throat
- Muscle or body aches
- Loss of taste or smell
- Nausea or diarrhea
Emergency symptoms include trouble breathing, chest pain, confusion or bluish lips or face. Seek immediate medical care.
What Should You Do If You Think You Have COVID?
If symptoms suggest COVID:
- Stay home and avoid others
- Get tested as soon as possible
- Wear a mask around people
- Contact a health care provider
People at higher risk should seek medical advice early.
How Is COVID Diagnosed?
COVID is diagnosed using a viral test that detects the virus in the body. Testing confirms infection and helps guide treatment and isolation. There are two kinds of tests, a rapid antigen test and a polymerase chain reaction (PCR) test. Both tests require a patient to swab the inside of their nose to obtain a testing sample.
What Is a Rapid Antigen Test?
A rapid antigen test detects proteins from the virus. Results are usually available in 15 to 30 minutes. These tests work best when symptoms are present but may be less sensitive than PCR tests. Over-the-counter rapid antigen tests are widely available and the tests can be taken at home.
What Is a PCR Test?
A polymerase chain reaction (PCR) test detects the virus’s genetic material using a nasal or throat swab. PCR tests can identify COVID even at low virus levels. Results may take hours to days. It is the most accurate COVID test.
Health care providers may recommend repeat or confirmatory testing in some cases.
How Is COVID Treated?
COVID treatment depends on symptoms and risk factors. Treatment options may include:
- Rest and fluids
- Fever- and pain-relief medications
- Prescription antiviral drugs for eligible patients
- Oxygen therapy or hospital care for severe illness
Early treatment may reduce the risk of complications.
How Can COVID Be Prevented?
COVID prevention reduces the risk of infection and spread. Prevention steps include:
- Stay up to date on COVID vaccines
- Wash hands often
- If soap and water is not available, use hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol
- Cover coughs and sneezes
- Improve indoor airflow
- Stay home when sick
COVID Recovery
Most people recover from COVID in a short period of time. However, some people do tend to have lingering effects. This is sometimes called “long COVID.” RWJBarnabas Health can help patients manage post-COVID conditions, from respiratory effects to fatigue and weakness. Visit our COVID Recovery page to learn more about the different programs and locations, and find one that suits your needs, or request an appointment.
Frequently Asked Questions About COVID
Is COVID still circulating?
Yes. COVID continues to circulate year-round, with periods of increased activity.
Can COVID be treated at home?
Many mild cases can be treated at home, but some people need prescription medication or hospital care.
Who is at higher risk for severe COVID?
Older adults, pregnant individuals and people with chronic conditions or weakened immune systems are at higher risk.
Learn more about COVID and pregnancy.
Do COVID vaccines still work?
Yes. Vaccines reduce the risk of severe illness, hospitalization and death.
If you have COVID symptoms or need testing, treatment or vaccination, RWJBarnabas Health offers care across hospitals, primary care practices, urgent care centers and laboratories. Contact us to find a doctor or hospital nearest you.