Coronaviruses are a large family of viruses that cause illness in humans ranging from the common cold to more serious respiratory infections like bronchitis, pneumonia or severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS).
2019 Novel Coronavirus (COVID-19) is a new strain of virus that has not been previously identified in humans. In some cases, illness caused by novel coronavirus can be mild. In more severe cases, the novel coronavirus can cause pneumonia, acute respiratory distress syndrome, severe influenza-like illness, kidney failure and even death.
Symptoms of COVID-19 range from mild to more severe. Some symptoms are similar to the flu and other common respiratory infections.
Older adults may also experience symptoms like:
In more severe cases, complications from COVID-19 can include pneumonia, kidney failure, or in some cases, death.
The risk of developing severe disease from COVID-19 may be higher if you have a weakened immune system. This may be the case for:
Coronaviruses are spread mainly from person to person through close contact, for example, in a household, workplace or health care centre.
COVID-19 spreads from an infected person to others through respiratory droplets and aerosols (smaller droplets) created when an infected person: talks, sings, shouts, coughs, or sneezes.
COVID-19 can also spread by touching something that has the virus on it, then touching your mouth, nose or eyes with unwashed hands. You can transmit COVID-19 before you start showing symptoms or without ever developing symptoms.
If you are experiencing symptoms of COVID-19 or think you have been exposed to COVID-19, use the self-assessment tool for a recommendation on what to do next.
If you still have questions about isolation or testing you can call:
If you have questions about your symptoms, you can call:
**If you are very ill, having difficulty breathing or need medical help right away, go to the nearest emergency department or call 9-1-1.** Do not call 911, unless it is an emergency.
COVID-19 self assessment | Government of Ontario
What to do if you have been exposed to COVID-19 | Government of Ontario
COVID-19 Clinical Assessments and Testing | Government of Ontario
Antiviral treatments are now available for free by prescription to individuals with COVID-19 who are at a higher risk of severe illness and hospitalization. These treatments are taken by mouth and must be taken within the first 5 to 7 days of your symptoms starting. Follow the links below to learn more about COVID-19 antiviral treatment.
COVID-19 Treatments | Government of Ontario
COVID-19 Antiviral Treatment Screener| Government of Ontario
Ministry of Health – Guidance for Healthcare Sector COVID-19 - Guidance for the Health Sector - Ministry Programs - Health Care Professionals - MOH (gov.on.ca)
Ontario Health – Guidance for Healthcare Providers – COVID-19 Treatment – Paxlovid and Evusheld COVID-19 Health System Response Materials | Ontario Health
For information on COVID-19 Vaccine, visit COVID-19 Vaccine | Grey Bruce Health Unit
Call Grey Bruce Health Unit 519-376-9420 or email us at publichealth@publicehealthgreybruce.on.ca
Public Health Ontario
Government of Ontario
Public Health Agency of Canada
Last updated: August 29, 2022
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