What is Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19), and what are common symptoms?

COVID-19 is a virus strain, formerly referred to as novel coronavirus. This new virus and disease were unknown before the outbreak began in Wuhan, China, in December 2019. Reports of illness from this virus are now found throughout the globe, including cases in St. Charles County.

People with COVID-19 illness report a wide range of symptoms, from mild or no ailments to severe illness. Symptoms typically appear 2-14 days after exposure to the virus and include:

  • dry cough.
  • shortness of breath/difficulty breathing.
  • fever.
  • chills.
  • repeated shaking with chills.
  • muscle pain
  • headache.
  • sore throat.
  • new loss of taste or smell.

For additional information on symptoms, please refer to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website.

Show All Answers

1. What is Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19), and what are common symptoms?
2. How does COVID-19 spread?
3. Should I be concerned about COVID-19?
4. How can I protect myself from COVID-19?
5. Should I wear a well-fitting face covering?
6. What does it mean to be asymptomatic?
7. What is Community Spread?
8. What are the similarities and differences between COVID-19, Influenza and the Common Cold?
9. What is contact tracing, and why is it important?
10. What information is needed for contact tracing?
11. What can I use to clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces?
12. Are there recommendations for dental services during COVID-19?
13. My question was not listed among these FAQs. Where can I go for additional information?