Human Coronaviruses

Overview

This is a group of viruses that infect your respiratory tract. Most people will be infected with a coronavirus at least once in their lifetime. Usually, symptoms are mild or moderate, and may seem like those of a common cold. But some coronaviruses can be very dangerous.

Causes

How do you get infected? These viruses spread from person to person. When an infected person sneezes or coughs, the virus spreads through the air. It lands on surfaces you touch. It can be passed to you during close contact, like with a handshake. Coronaviruses enter your body through your eyes, nose or mouth. In rare cases, they can spread through an infected person's poop.

Symptoms

Symptoms include a runny nose, a cough and a sore throat. You may have a headache and fever. And, you may have a general feeling of being unwell. Infections are more serious for some people. This includes infants, older people, and those with a weakened immune system or cardiopulmonary disease. These people may get pneumonia or bronchitis.

Deadly strains

It's important to note that some coronaviruses are very dangerous. Outbreaks of these viruses have caused severe symptoms and many deaths.

Treatment

We treat a coronavirus infection just like we treat a common cold. Most people recover on their own at home. But if your symptoms are severe, see your doctor.

Please be aware that this information is provided to supplement the care provided by your physician. It is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. CALL YOUR HEALTHCARE PROVIDER IMMEDIATELY IF YOU THINK YOU MAY HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.