COVID-19 and the SARS-CoV-2 virus overview

COVID-19 is a contagious disease caused by the SARS-CoV-2 coronavirus, which led to a global pandemic starting in January 2020. Symptoms vary and can include fever, fatigue, cough, breathing difficulties, and loss of taste or smell. While approximately one-third of infected individuals do not develop noticeable symptoms, others experience a range of severity.

Most patients (81%) develop mild to moderate symptoms, such as mild pneumonia. About 14% develop severe symptoms like hypoxia, and 5% face critical complications including respiratory failure or organ dysfunction. Older populations face a higher risk of severe illness. Some individuals experience long-term effects known as ‘long COVID’, which can persist for months or years.

Transmission occurs through infectious particles inhaled via the air or through contact with contaminated surfaces and mucous membranes. Individuals can remain contagious for up to 20 days, even if asymptomatic. Diagnostic testing typically utilizes methods such as real-time reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) or RT-LAMP via nasopharyngeal swabs.