COVID-19

An illness caused by the SARS-CoV-2 coronavirus. Most people have mild symptoms, but it can be serious for older people and those with other conditions.

InfectionBreathingLast updated: 21 October 2026

Quick Summary

Primary Symptoms

Fever, cough, sore throat, tiredness, body aches, headache, and loss of taste or smell. Sometimes breathlessness.

Common Treatments

Rest, fluids and paracetamol for mild illness. Antiviral medicines and hospital care for people at high risk or severe illness.

Risk Factors

Older age, diabetes, heart and lung disease, obesity, weak immune system and not being vaccinated.

OverviewSymptomsCausesTreatmentFAQ

Overview

COVID-19 spreads mainly through droplets and tiny particles when an infected person breathes, talks, coughs or sneezes, especially indoors.

Most people recover at home in one to two weeks. Some develop severe illness with pneumonia, and some have symptoms that last months (long COVID). Vaccination lowers the risk of severe illness.

Symptoms

Fever and chills

Often among the first symptoms.

Cough and breathlessness

Get urgent help for difficulty breathing or low oxygen readings.

Tiredness and body aches

Can last for some time after the infection.

Loss of taste or smell

Less common with newer variants.

Causes & Risk Factors

Biological Causes

Infection with the SARS-CoV-2 virus, which infects the nose, throat and lungs.

Key Risk Factors

  • Age Risk of severe illness rises with age.
  • Long-term conditions Diabetes, heart disease, lung disease, kidney disease and obesity.
  • Weak immune system Due to illness or medicines.

Management & Treatment

01. Home care

Rest, drink fluids and use paracetamol for fever and aches.

02. Antiviral treatment

For people at high risk of severe illness, if started early. Ask your doctor.

03. Hospital care

Oxygen and other treatment for severe illness.

Frequently Asked Questions

When should I get help urgently?
For difficulty breathing, chest pain, confusion, bluish lips, or oxygen levels below about 94% on a pulse oximeter.
Should I get tested?
Testing helps if you're at high risk or caring for vulnerable people.
What is long COVID?
Symptoms such as tiredness, breathlessness and poor concentration lasting more than 12 weeks.

Sources and further reading

Last updated 21 October 2026. For more detail, see these trusted health organisations.