COVID-19

COVID-19 is an illness caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus. It mainly affects the respiratory system, though other organs can be involved. People may have no symptoms at all or experience severe, life-threatening illness.

Common Symptoms
• Fever or chills
• Cough
• Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing
• Fatigue
• Muscle or body aches
• Headache
• New loss of taste or smell
• Sore throat, congestion or runny nose
• Nausea, vomiting or diarrhea

Symptoms usually appear two to 14 days after exposure. Some people feel completely well but can still spread the virus.

Severe Disease and Complications
Severe COVID-19 can lead to pneumonia, acute respiratory distress, blood clots, multi-organ failure and, in some cases, death. Seek emergency care if you or someone else has constant chest pain, new confusion, trouble waking up or blue lips or face.

Cause and Transmission
COVID-19 spreads mainly through droplets or smaller particles released when an infected person breathes, talks, coughs or sneezes. People can pass on the virus before they feel sick. Spread from contaminated surfaces is possible but less common.

Who Is at Higher Risk for Severe Illness?
• Older adults
• People with heart disease, diabetes or chronic lung or kidney disease
• Those with weakened immune systems
• Pregnant individuals
• People with obesity or who smoke

Diagnosis
COVID-19 is diagnosed by detecting the virus from a nasal or nasopharyngeal swab using PCR or rapid antigen testing. Antibody tests can show past infection but are not used to confirm new cases.

Prevention and Protection
You can lower your risk by staying up to date on vaccines and boosters, wearing a well-fitting mask in higher-risk settings, improving indoor ventilation, avoiding close contact with people who are sick, testing when you have symptoms or an exposure and washing your hands often. People at higher risk should talk with their healthcare provider about early treatments, including antiviral medications.

Prognosis and Recovery
Most people with mild or moderate illness recover at home with rest, fluids and fever-reducing medication. Recovery times vary—some feel better quickly, while others have lingering symptoms known as long COVID. TidalHealth is here to help with guidance and symptom support as you recover safely.

How do I know if I should get tested for COVID-19?
Get tested if you have symptoms, know you were exposed to someone with COVID-19 or need to meet work, travel or medical requirements. Rapid antigen tests are often used for mild symptoms. PCR tests are recommended when more sensitivity is needed.

What should I do if I test positive?
Follow current public health guidance for isolation, usually staying home for at least five days from the start of symptoms or from the test date if you feel well. Wear a mask around others for an additional five days. Let close contacts know, rest, stay hydrated and monitor your symptoms. People at higher risk should contact their healthcare provider to discuss treatment options.

When should I seek emergency care?
Seek help right away for trouble breathing, constant chest pain, new confusion, inability to stay awake or blue lips or face. If you are unsure, call your healthcare practitioner or emergency services.

Are there effective treatments for COVID-19?
Yes. Antiviral medications such as nirmatrelvir/ritonavir (Paxlovid) or remdesivir, and monoclonal antibodies when available, may reduce the risk of severe illness if taken early. Most people with mild illness recover at home with rest, fluids, fever reducers and oxygen if needed.

What about vaccines and boosters?
COVID-19 vaccines are highly effective at reducing severe illness, hospitalization and death. Boosters help maintain strong protection and address new variants. Follow guidance from public health officials and your TidalHealth care team for the most up-to-date recommendations.

Can I get COVID-19 more than once?
Yes. Immunity from vaccination or previous infection can lessen over time, so reinfections can occur, especially with new variants.

What is long COVID, and what should I do if I have ongoing symptoms?
Long COVID refers to symptoms that continue or begin after the initial illness, such as fatigue, difficulty concentrating or shortness of breath. If symptoms last more than a few weeks, talk with your healthcare practitioner for evaluation, support and possible referrals.

How can I protect others in my household if I have COVID-19?
• Stay in a separate room if possible
• Use a separate bathroom if available
• Wear a well-fitting mask around others
• Improve airflow by opening windows or using fans
• Clean high-touch surfaces regularly
• Avoid sharing personal items
• Make sure household members are up to date on vaccinations
• Consider testing others a few days after exposure

Do masks and ventilation still matter?
Yes. High-quality, well-fitting masks and good airflow remain effective ways to reduce transmission, especially when COVID-19 levels are high or if anyone in the household is at increased risk.

If you have questions about your symptoms, testing, treatment options, vaccines or when to safely return to work or school, connect with your healthcare practitioner or local public health authority for guidance tailored to your situation.