COVID-19
Also known as: Coronavirus Disease, Corona
COVID-19 is a respiratory illness caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus, ranging from mild cold-like symptoms to severe pneumonia.
Symptoms
- Fever
- Cough
- Sore throat
- Loss of taste or smell
- Tiredness
- Breathlessness
Causes
- SARS-CoV-2 virus
Risk factors
- Older age
- Diabetes
- Heart and lung disease
- Weakened immunity
Complications
- Pneumonia
- Blood clots
- Long COVID
Treatment overview
Most people recover with rest and fever control; severe cases need hospital care and oxygen.
Prevention
- Vaccination
- Masks in crowded indoor places
- Hand hygiene
When to see a doctor
If oxygen level falls below 94 percent or breathing becomes difficult.
Medicines used
Vaccines
Specialists who treat it
Frequently asked questions
What are the symptoms of COVID-19?
Fever, Cough, Sore throat, Loss of taste or smell, Tiredness, Breathlessness
What causes COVID-19?
SARS-CoV-2 virus
How is COVID-19 treated?
Most people recover with rest and fever control; severe cases need hospital care and oxygen.
How can COVID-19 be prevented?
Vaccination, Masks in crowded indoor places, Hand hygiene
Medically reviewed by
Medical review pending
Last updated
9 October 2026
Sources
- World Health Organization fact sheets
- ICMR and MoHFW national guidelines
- National Centre for Disease Control (NCDC)
This information is for general awareness and does not replace advice from a qualified doctor. Do not start, stop or change any medicine without medical advice.