Become a COVID-19 Student Expert

Coronaviruses are a family of viruses that can cause disease in humans. COVID-19, along with SARS and MERS, is one of many viruses in this family that may cause respiratory problems.

COVID-19 spreads through your breath in tiny drops you cannot see. When someone breaths, coughs, or sneezes these droplets are put into the air and another person can breathe them in. When droplets fall from the air they can also live on surfaces, where a person can touch them and then touch their face, mouth, eyes or nose. This is why social distancing and washing your hands regularly with soap and water is important.

The World Health Organization, or the WHO, declared COVID-19 to be a global pandemic on March 12th, 2020. This means the disease has spread across the globe to different countries on multiple continents.

Maintaining social distance means avoiding large gatherings and maintaining the distance of at least 3 feet, or 1 meter, from others to stop the spread of COVID-19. Additionally, when greeting someone, maintain that distance and avoid shaking hands, kissing, and hugging. Avoid using unnecessary use of public transport and, if you are feeling unwell, stay home. Unfortunately, this also includes family member and friends who you do not live with. Stay in touch with each other using remote technology such as phones and social media.

Asymptomatic means a person feels and looks healthy but has the virus and can still be contagious. Even people without symptoms can spread COVID-19, which is another reason to practice social distancing.

Symptoms usually last for 5-7 days but you can spread the disease 2 - 14 days before you feel sick. However, people may be sick for two weeks or longer, depending on the age of the person and their medical condition. People who feel sick should self-quarantine.

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