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COVID-19

COVID-19 treatment

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What is COVID-19?

COVID-19 is an infectious disease caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus. It primarily spreads through respiratory droplets from infected individuals. The virus can cause mild to severe respiratory illness and has led to global public health challenges since its emergence in late 2019.

COVID-19 Treatment Options

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Online Prescriptions

Telehealth Consultations

Medical Certificates

COVID-19 Symptoms

Symptoms can vary widely and may appear 2–14 days after exposure. Common symptoms include:

  • Fever or chills
  • Cough
  • Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing
  • Fatigue
  • Muscle or body aches
  • Loss of taste or smell
  • Sore throat
  • Congestion or runny nose
  • Nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea

Severe cases may lead to pneumonia, organ failure, or death, particularly in individuals with underlying health conditions.

Understanding COVID-19

Explore the causes, symptoms, and complications related to COVID-19.

COVID-19 is caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus, primarily spreading through respiratory droplets when an infected person coughs, sneezes, talks, or breathes. It can also spread via contact with contaminated surfaces and close physical contact.

Common symptoms include fever, cough, fatigue, and loss of taste or smell. Some individuals may experience sore throat, headache, shortness of breath, or gastrointestinal issues. Severity can range from mild to life-threatening.

Severe COVID-19 cases can lead to pneumonia, acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS), organ failure, blood clots, and death. Long COVID can cause persistent fatigue, brain fog, and respiratory issues weeks or months after infection.

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Frequently
Asked Questions

COVID-19 primarily spreads through respiratory droplets released when an infected person coughs, sneezes, talks, or breathes. It can also spread by touching surfaces contaminated with the virus and then touching your face. Close contact with infected individuals increases the likelihood of transmission.

Common symptoms include fever, cough, fatigue, loss of taste or smell, shortness of breath, and muscle aches. Some people may experience mild symptoms or remain asymptomatic, while others develop severe complications. Symptoms typically appear 2 to 14 days after exposure to the virus.

People at higher risk for severe illness include older adults and individuals with underlying health conditions such as heart disease, diabetes, obesity, chronic respiratory conditions, or weakened immune systems. Pregnant individuals and unvaccinated people are also more vulnerable to severe outcomes.

COVID-19 is diagnosed using a laboratory test that detects the virus’s genetic material (PCR test) or proteins (antigen test). These tests typically involve a nasal or throat swab. Rapid antigen tests provide quicker results, while PCR tests are more sensitive and accurate.

Treatment for COVID-19 depends on the severity of the illness. Mild cases are often managed with rest, hydration, and over-the-counter medications to relieve symptoms. Severe cases may require oxygen therapy, antiviral medications, or admission to intensive care units for mechanical ventilation.

COVID-19 vaccines have been shown to reduce the risk of severe illness, hospitalization, and death. They also help decrease the spread of the virus, though breakthrough infections can still occur. Vaccination remains a critical tool in controlling the pandemic and protecting public health.

Guidelines for mask use depend on local public health recommendations, the prevalence of COVID-19 in your community, and your risk factors. In high-transmission areas or crowded settings, wearing a mask can provide an extra layer of protection, especially if you are immunocompromised or in close contact with unvaccinated individuals.