About Covid-19

COVID-19 is a respiratory illness caused by a new virus. Symptoms range from a mild cough to pneumonia. Some people get only mild symptoms, recover easily and others may get very sick very quickly. The virus spreads from person to person. There is no way of knowing how severely the virus will impact each individual so getting tested, isolating until you are cleared of the virus and maintaining high levels of hand and respiratory hygiene are so important in reducing further spread of the virus.

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• Fever

• Dry cough

• Tiredness

 

Some people who are ill may have:

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• Aches and pains

• Headaches

• Nasal congestion or runny nose

• Sore throat

• Shortness of breath

• Diarrhoea (this is rare)

 

These symptoms are usually mild and begin gradually. Some people become infected but don’t develop any symptoms and don’t feel unwell. Most people (about 80%) recover from the disease without needing special treatment. However, regardless of the severity of the symptoms experienced all people who test positive to COVID-19 must isolate to reduce further infection. Around 1 out of every 6 people who get COVID-19 becomes seriously ill and develop difficulty breathing. These serious symptoms may include:

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• difficulty breathing or shortness of breath

• chest pain or pressure

• loss of speech or movement

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To stop the spread of COVID-19 people with even mild symptoms of respiratory infection should get tested. If you are concerned you may have COVID-19:

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• Use the symptom checker

• Get tested

• Call 1800 020 080 if you are seeking information on coronavirus (COVID-19). The line operates 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

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Find out more about Covid19 and how to stay safe by clicking on the NSW Health website