About the Coronavirus 19
(COVID-19)

How does the new coronavirus spread?

The new virus is spreading easily from person to person, usually those within about 6 feet of each other. It can spread easier and cause more infections than other coronaviruses because it’s a new strain that people haven’t yet built an immunity to.

The new virus is believed to be spread through respiratory droplets when an infected person sneezes or coughs, just like the flu. These droplets can be inhaled by others or land in their mouths or noses. You may be able to get infected by touching a surface or object that has the virus on it and then touching your mouth, nose or eyes. But it’s not thought to be the main way the virus spreads.

People appear to be most contagious when they are the sickest or have the most symptoms. Some people have spread the disease without showing any symptoms, but this is less common.

That being said, COVID-19 is a new disease and we are still learning more about how it spreads.

What are the symptoms of the new coronavirus?

Symptoms of COVID-19 can range from mild to severe, with the majority being mild. The symptoms may appear two to 14 days after exposure and include:

• Cough
• Shortness of breath
• Fever
• Chills
• Repeated shaking with chills
• Muscle pain
• Headache
• Sore throat
• New loss of taste or smell

How long does it take for symptoms to appear?

Symptoms of the new virus are believed to appear two to 14 days after exposure.