Fact Sheet

COVID-19 (Updated January 2025)

In the past few years, you have likely become aware of COVID-19. It is important we continue to take actions to keep our families and communities protected from COVID-19. This resource provides information about how COVID-19 is a part of our lives now.

What is COVID-19?

COVID-19 is a respiratory illness caused by a type of germ called a coronavirus.¹ COVID-19 causes sickness in the lungs and other parts of the body. The best way to prevent getting sick is to stay away from people sick with COVID-19 and to get the updated vaccine. The vaccines are safe and effective for preventing infection.

 

 

What are symptoms of COVID-19?

Some or all of the following symptoms may appear 2-14 days after contact with the virus:

How is COVID-19 spread?

COVID-19 is spread by tiny water droplets carrying the virus. People can become sick by:

COVID-19 can be spread even by people who do not feel sick or have symptoms.

How can I protect myself, my family, and my community?

The best way to protect yourself and your family from COVID-19 is by getting a COVID-19 vaccine. It is also important to get an updated COVID-19 vaccine each year. It’s okay if you didn’t get a vaccine previously, getting an updated vaccine this year will still be effective.

 

The best way to protect your community, besides getting the vaccine, is by:

What else should I know?

The COVID-19 vaccine has been tested. It is safe and effective for children ages 6 months and older. The COVID-19 vaccine protects groups who may be more at risk for severe illness from COVID-19, including:

What should I do if I think I have COVID-19?

If you test positive for COVID-19, take care of your symptoms. Try to stay away from people, or wear a face mask if around others. If you test negative, take care of your symptoms and consider taking a COVID test in 24 hours.

 

 

Urgently seek medical care if you have any of these emergency symptoms:

 

 

People who are at higher risk of severe COVID-19 illness may be eligible for a treatment called Paxlovid. This medication must be started within 5 days of when COVID-19 symptoms start. Paxlovid is currently available to people 12 years and older.

Resources for download:

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