What is a novel coronavirus?
The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is not the same as the coronavirus that commonly circulates among us and causes the common cold or mild illness. This is a new coronavirus that has not been previously identified. Patients with COVID-19 are evaluated and cared for differently than patients with a common coronavirus diagnosis.
Why is it called COVID-19?
In COVID-19, 'CO' stands for 'corona,' 'VI' for 'virus,' 'D' for disease and '19' for '2019'. Formerly, this was referred to as "2019 novel coronavirus" or "2019-nCoV". The name was selected based on World Health Organization (WHO)'s naming new human infectious diseases.
How COVID-19 spreads?
COVID-19 is thought to spread mainly from person to person through respiratory droplets produced when an infected person coughs or sneezes. Spread is more likely when people are in close contact with one another, within about 6 feet.
Learn what is known about the spread of newly emerged coronaviruses
Why are we seeing a rise in cases?
The cases are on the rise because of increased laboratory testing and reporting across the United States and other countries.
Can someone who has been quarantined spread it to others?
For COVID-19 quarantine is 14 days from the last date of exposure. The incubation period for COVID-19 is 2 to 14 days. Someone who has been quarantined is not considered a risk because they have not developed illness during the incubation period.
