COVID-19

NB the following information has been copied directly from the WIKIPEDIA page in order to avoid any errors, misconceptions or false information.

COVID-19 (Coronavirus disease 2019) is a contagious disease caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2, or SARS-CoV-2.

Common symptoms of COVID-19 include fever, cough, fatigue, breathing difficulties, and loss of smell and taste. While most people have mild symptoms, some people develop acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS).

COVID-19 spreads via a number of means, primarily involving saliva and other bodily fluids and excretions. These fluids can form small droplets and aerosols, which can spread as an infected person breathes, coughs, sneezes, sings, or speaks. The virus may also spread via fomites (contaminated surfaces) and direct contact.

Preventive measures include social distancing, quarantining, ventilation of indoor spaces, covering coughs and sneezes, hand washing, and keeping unwashed hands away from the face. The use of face masks or coverings has been recommended in public settings to minimise the risk of transmissions.

Vaccines were developed during 2020 and roll-outs began towards the end of the year and the beginning of 2021 in the UK, US and European countries.