In our desire to protect the health and safety of our community from the novel coronavirus disease (COVID-19), the HBCU Wellness Program is providing resources to help prevent the exposure and spread of COVID-19.

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OVERVIEW OF COVID-19

What is COVID-19?

COVID-19 (coronavirus disease 2019) is a disease caused by a virus named SARS-CoV-2. It can be very contagious and spreads quickly. 

 

Primarily affecting the respiratory system, COVID-19 manifests with symptoms akin to common respiratory ailments such as the cold, flu, or pneumonia. However, its effects can extend beyond the respiratory system to other parts of the body. While many individuals experience mild symptoms, severe illness can occur in some cases.

 

Furthermore, there is emerging recognition of Post-COVID Conditions, commonly known as "Long COVID," which can affect individuals even after the initial infection, including those who had mild or asymptomatic cases.

 

What are the symptoms?

People with COVID-19 have had a wide range of symptoms reported – ranging from mild symptoms to severe illness. Symptoms may appear 2-14 days after exposure to the virus. People with these symptoms may have COVID-19:

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• Cough

• Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing

• Fever or chills

• Fatigue

• Muscle or body aches

• Sore throat

• New loss of taste or smell

• Congestion or runny nose

• Nausea or vomiting

• Diarrhea

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This list does not include all possible symptoms. 

 

How does the virus spread?

COVID-19 spreads when an infected person breathes out droplets and very small particles that contain the virus.  These particles pose a risk when inhaled by others or when they come into contact with the eyes, nose, or mouth. Additionally, surfaces touched by these droplets may become contaminated.

 

It's important to note that individuals infected with COVID-19 can transmit the virus even if they aren't exhibiting any symptoms.

 

What about variants?

• New variants of SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes COVID-19, will continue to occur.​

• The Omicron variant, which emerged in November 2021, has many lineages. New lineages continue to emerge and spread in the United States and globally.

• For the most up to date information on current variants, visit CDC’s COVID Data Tracker.

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You can contact your local health department, or the links below for additional information regarding COVID-19 resources.

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