COVID-19 is a respiratory disease caused by SARS-CoV-2, a coronavirus discovered in 2019. The virus spreads mainly from person to person through respiratory droplets produced when an infected person coughs, sneezes, or talks.
Some people who are infected may not have symptoms. For people who have symptoms, illness can range from mild to severe.
Adults 65 years and older and people of any age with underlying medical conditions are at higher risk for severe illness.
People ages 5 years and older should get COVID-19 vaccines to prevent getting and spreading the illness. Everyone ages 16 and older can get a booster shot.
Key Facts
- The virus that causes COVID-19 can spread through respiratory droplets when an infected person coughs, sneezes, or talks.
- Symptoms may appear 2-14 days after someone is exposed to the virus and can include fever, chills, and cough.
- Some people who are infected may not have symptoms, which is why everyone should take everyday preventive actions.
- Anyone can have severe illness from COVID-19, especially older adults and people of any age with underlying conditions.
- Learn more about variants of the virus that causes COVID-19.
Media
Illustration of the ultrastructural morphology exhibited by coronaviruses. Note the spikes that adorn the outer surface of the virus, which impart the look of a corona surrounding the virion when viewed electron microscopically.
