Coronavirus (COVID-19) Resource Center

Coronavirus is a type of virus that causes respiratory illness — an infection of the airways and lungs. COVID-19 is a strain of coronavirus. It’s part of the same family of coronaviruses that includes the common cold.

The most common early symptoms appear between 2 and 14 days after being infected. Symptoms can be mild to severe. They include fever, cough, and shortness of breath.

COVID-19 spreads from person-to-person through a cough, sneeze or kiss. However, since COVID-19 is a new disease, it can change. These variants may have new characteristics. That's why scientists around the globe continue to study the virus.

The best way to prevent infection is to get a COVID-19 vaccine. The FDA has authorized three vaccines that have proven to be up to 95% effective in protecting against COVID-19. Check the CDC website for up-to-date information. If you’re traveling, you’ll want to visit the CDC travel page for their most current travel guidelines. CDC information for household members and caregivers can be found at this CDC webpage.

Several drugs have been approved or authorized by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for use to treat COVID-19.

Visit the CDC website to learn more about medicines and treatment guidelines for COVID-19. Please discuss additional questions about COVID-19 treatments and medicines with your doctor.