COVID-19 is an infectious disease caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus. It most often causes respiratory symptoms that can feel much like a cold, the flu, or pneumonia.
COVID-19 spreads when an infected person breathes out droplets and very small particles that contain the virus. Other people can breathe in these droplets and particles, or they can land on other’s eyes, nose, or mouth. In some circumstances, these droplets may contaminate the surfaces they touch.
Prevention
There are many actions you can take to help protect you, your household, and your community against COVID-19. Review the Respiratory Virus Guidance given by the CDC for actions you can take to lower your risk of COVID-19 transmission.
COVID-19 Vaccinations
Staying up to date on COVID-19 vaccines significantly lowers the risk of getting very sick: Vaccine Resources and Information
Anyone infected with COVID-19 can spread it, even if they do NOT have symptoms. Symptoms may appear 2-14 days after exposure to the virus.
Possible symptoms include:
- fever or chills
- cough
- shortness of breath or difficulty breathing
- sore throat
- congestion or runny nose
- fatigue
- muscle or body aches
- headache
- nausea or vomiting
- new loss of taste or smell
- diarrhea
Feeling sick? Stay home and away from others if you have symptoms. Contact your primary care physician or the Medina County Health Department Health Center promptly for testing and/or treatment.
To report an at-home positive COVID-19 test fill out the Home Test Reporting Form.