The COVID-19 virus is a serious respiratory disease that can lead to pneumonia. Fluid fills the air sacs in the lungs and can be life-threatening. When this happens, the patient can suffer septic shock and may require mechanical ventilation. As the infection spreads, it may require hospitalization and can be fatal in as few as 1 in 20 patients. Vaccines for COVID-19 are needed to protect the public and help prevent the disease.

People who are infected with the COVID-19 virus can get the illness in a number of ways. The most common is through unintentionally touching an object or surface. In most cases, mild symptoms will pass with time without the need for medical attention. In more severe cases, the symptoms may be severe, requiring treatment in a hospital. Although symptoms may appear within two to 14 days of exposure, they can be managed at home by avoiding touching your face and staying away from contaminated areas.

The COVID-19 virus can cause death in people with underlying medical conditions. Although most sufferers experience only mild symptoms, it can cause heart and lung muscle damage. If you have any symptoms of COVID-19, contact a doctor or an urgent care facility immediately. If you notice a fever, cough, or muscle weakness, you should go to the emergency room. If you are not sure, you can get the virus by touching contaminated objects or interacting with infected people.