10 key facts about COVID-19
In this article we will describe 10 key facts about COVID-19.
1. Definition and Cause
COVID-19, caused by the SARS-CoV-2 coronavirus, is an infectious respiratory illness first identified in Wuhan, China, in December 2019.
2. Transmission
COVID-19 spreads via:
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Respiratory droplets (coughing, sneezing, talking)
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Close contact
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Contaminated surfaces and objects.
3. Symptoms
Common symptoms include:
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Fever
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Cough
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Fatigue
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Shortness of breath
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Loss of taste/smell
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Muscle pains
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Diarrhoea.
Note: Approximately 80% of symptomatic cases are mild, 15% moderate, and 5% severe.
4. Incubation and Duration
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Incubation: Symptoms typically appear within 5-6 days (range 2-14) post-exposure
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Duration:
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Mild cases: 1-2 weeks
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Severe cases: Up to 6 weeks or longer
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Long COVID: Symptoms persisting over 3 months
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5. At-risk Groups
At-risk groups include:
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Older adults (65+)
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Young children
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Underlying health conditions (diabetes, heart disease)
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Immunocompromised individuals.
6. Treatment
Most patients require no treatment. For those requiring treatment:
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Medication:
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Antivirals (Remdesivir, Lopinavir/Ritonavir, Oseltamivir, Molnupiravir, Paxlovid)
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Anti-inflammatory drugs (Dexamethasone, Prednisolone, Tocilizumab)
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Immunomodulators (Baricitinib, Tofacitinib)
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Oxygen therapy
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Hospitalisation +/- ICU/ventilation (severe cases)
7. Prevention
Recommended measures:
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Vaccination
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Mask-wearing
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Social distancing
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Hand hygiene
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Avoiding crowded areas.
8. Vaccine Efficacy
COVID-19 vaccines significantly reduce severe illness, hospitalization, and mortality.
9. Mortality and Complications
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Mortality rate: Approximately 1%, varying by vaccination status, age, variant, and underlying health conditions
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Increased mortality: 5% (75+ years), 15% (85+ years)
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Long COVID: Affects approximately 2% of the UK population, with 70% experiencing symptoms beyond 1 year.
10. Global Impact
As of 24 December 2024:
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776 million reported cases
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7 million reported deaths
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Widespread economic disruption.
Summary
We have described 10 key facts about COVID-19. We hope it has been helpful.
