A coronavirus is a type of virus that causes respiratory infections ranging from the common cold to more serious conditions like severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS).
A type of coronavirus, known as SARS-CoV-2, emerged worldwide in 2020. SARS-CoV-2 causes the disease COVID-19, which became a global pandemic.
UPMC experts provide comprehensive care for SARS-CoV-2 and COVID-19, offering the latest vaccines and treatments.
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What Is Coronavirus (SARS-CoV-2)?
A coronavirus is a type of virus that causes respiratory infections ranging from the common cold to more serious conditions like severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS).
A type of coronavirus, known as SARS-CoV-2, emerged worldwide in 2020. SARS-CoV-2 causes the disease COVID-19, which became a global pandemic.
What are the types of coronaviruses?
There are many types of coronaviruses.
Although most common cold coronaviruses cause mild to moderate upper respiratory infections, they can also cause lower respiratory tract infections.
Two types of coronaviruses have been associated with more severe disease in recent years, including:
- Coronavirus disease 2019 (SARS-CoV-2 or COVID-19) — Emerged in 2019 and is now endemic in the United States.
- Middle East respiratory syndrome (MERS) coronavirus (MERS-CoV) — Emerged in 2012 with most cases detected in countries near the Arabian Peninsula, posing a very low risk to the U.S. public.
How common are coronaviruses?
Coronaviruses are very common, causing mild to moderate upper respiratory infections in millions of people each year. Sometimes, such as with COVID-19, coronaviruses cause severe illness that spreads easily from person to person.
What causes COVID-19 infection?
SARS-CoV-2 spreads through respiratory droplets.
When an infected person coughs, sneezes, or talks, it releases droplets that can land in an uninfected person's nose, mouth, or eyes. This is how COVID-19 most commonly spreads.
Less commonly, COVID-19 can spread when a person touches an infected surface and then touches their eyes, nose, or mouth.
COVID-19 risk factors
Some people who have COVID-19 may be asymptomatic (without symptoms) or only have mild symptoms. But COVID-19 can also lead to more serious — even deadly — complications.
You may be at a higher risk of developing severe COVID-19 complications if you:
- Are an older adult.
- Are pregnant or have recently been pregnant.
- Have underlying health conditions (diabetes, heart disease, lung disease, etc.) or are immunocompromised.
Complications of COVID-19
Coronavirus can cause serious, life-threatening complications, including:
- Damage to other organs and structures, such as your heart, blood vessels, kidneys, brain, eyes, and gastrointestinal organs.
- Long-lasting symptoms, also known as long COVID.
- Respiratory failure and lung damage.
How can I reduce my risk of getting COVID-19?
You can reduce your risk of getting or spreading coronavirus by:
- Getting vaccinated — Americans age 6 months and older are eligible for a COVID-19 vaccine. The available vaccines are safe and effective. They are especially effective in preventing severe COVID-19 illness, hospitalization, and death. Learn more about COVID-19 vaccines.
- Washing your hands often — Use soap and water and wash for at least 20 seconds. Be sure to wash after you cough or sneeze, before you eat, after you use the bathroom, and after you touch common surfaces. If you do not have access to soap and water, use a hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol. Spread the hand sanitizer on both sides of your hands and rub them together until they are dry.
- Sanitizing surfaces — Include tables, countertops, doorknobs, and other common items.
- Practicing basic hygiene — Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth. Cover your mouth and nose when you sneeze and cough.
- Avoiding close contact with people who are sick — Keep a distance of at least six feet.
- Staying home if you're sick — If you are experiencing COVID-19 symptoms such as a fever or cough, or if you have been exposed to someone who has tested positive for COVID-19, call your doctor or use UPMC AnywhereCare for guidance. A video visit from home limits the spread of infection.
What Are the Signs and Symptoms of Coronavirus (SARS-CoV-2)?
COVID-19 symptoms can start anytime from two to 14 days after exposure to SARS-CoV-2. They're similar to symptoms of a cold or flu and may include:
- Congestion/runny nose.
- Cough.
- Diarrhea.
- Fatigue.
- Fever/chills.
- Headache.
- Loss of taste or smell.
- Muscle/body aches.
- Nausea/vomiting.
- Shortness of breath/difficulty breathing.
- Sore throat.
When should I see a doctor about my COVID-19 symptoms?
Mild to moderate cases of coronavirus typically get better within 10 to 14 days and can be effectively managed at home. However, if your symptoms don’t improve with home care or last longer than expected, you should schedule an appointment with your doctor right away.
Some people are eligible for antiviral medications. Please discuss this with your health care provider.
If you are experiencing severe symptoms, such as high fever or trouble breathing, call 911 or the nearest Emergency Department in your community for immediate care.
How Do You Diagnose Coronavirus (SARS-CoV-2)?
Because COVID-19 symptoms are similar to other respiratory diseases, testing is necessary to confirm a COVID-19 diagnosis.
You can perform a self-test at home, or you can get tested at your doctor’s office. COVID-19 testing involves using a swab to collect mucus samples from the nose.
What to expect during your visit
During your visit, your doctor will:
- Ask about your symptoms.
- Evaluate your medical history.
- Order diagnostic tests.
- Perform a physical exam.
Tests to diagnose COVID-19
Two types of tests can be used to diagnose COVID-19, including:
- Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) tests — Detect the genetic material of the virus. PCR tests provide the most accurate results, but need to be processed using specialized lab equipment.
- Antigen tests — Detect proteins on the virus. Although not as accurate as PCR tests, they can be performed at home without any specialized equipment and provide results within several minutes.
COVID-19 prognosis
Your prognosis after COVID-19 infection depends on your age, overall health, and the severity of your infection. Most people with mild cases recover in a few weeks. If you experience complications such as pneumonia or bronchitis, recovery may take longer. Severe cases of COVID-19 may cause life-threatening organ failure or other complications.
How Do You Treat Coronavirus (SARS-CoV-2)?
The goals of coronavirus (SARS-CoV-2) treatment are to manage symptoms and reduce the risk of serious complications.
Treatment options may include:
Supportive home care
Mild cases of COVID-19 can be treated at home with supportive care, such as rest, over-the-counter medications, and extra fluids. Before taking any over-the-counter medication, check with your doctor to make sure it is appropriate for your symptoms and safe for you.
Antiviral medications
Antiviral medications help your immune system fight the virus and are most effective when taken soon after symptoms start.
Why Choose UPMC for Coronavirus (SARS-CoV-2) Care?
When you choose UPMC for coronavirus (SARS-CoV-2) care, you will receive:
- Access to board-certified specialists — Our multidisciplinary team of experts provides leading-edge care for children and adults with COVID-19 and related complications, including long COVID.
- Expert diagnosis and personalized care — Our team will develop a customized treatment plan to reduce your risk of complications and improve your quality of life.
- A full range of treatment options — We use the latest therapies and medications to provide comprehensive care, including FDA-approved medications to slow the virus and lower your risk of complications.
