COVID-19

COVID-19 is a highly contagious respiratory illness caused by the novel coronavirus SARS-CoV-2. First identified in Wuhan, China, in December 2019, the disease quickly spread worldwide and was declared a pandemic by the World Health Organization (WHO) in March 2020. It affects the respiratory system primarily but can also cause systemic complications affecting the heart, kidneys, brain, and more. While many individuals recover without special treatment, others—especially older adults and those with underlying medical conditions—may become severely ill.

COVID-19 stands for Coronavirus Disease 2019. It is caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus, which belongs to the coronavirus family—viruses known to cause illnesses ranging from the common cold to more severe diseases like SARS and MERS. COVID-19 spreads through respiratory droplets when an infected person coughs, sneezes, or talks. In some cases, it can also spread via contaminated surfaces or aerosols in closed, unventilated areas.

The disease presents with a wide spectrum of symptoms—from mild or no symptoms to severe pneumonia, multi-organ failure, and death. Due to its high transmission rate and potential for asymptomatic spread, it poses significant challenges to public health.

As of 2025, COVID-19 has infected over 770 million people globally, with more than 7 million confirmed deaths, according to the WHO. In India alone, over 4.5 crore confirmed cases and more than 530,000 deaths have been reported. The prevalence continues to fluctuate due to emerging variants, changing vaccination rates, and public health interventions.

COVID-19 is primarily one disease, but several variants of the SARS-CoV-2 virus have emerged:

• Alpha (B.1.1.7): First identified in the UK
• Beta (B.1.351): First detected in South Africa
• Delta (B.1.617.2): Originated in India and caused a significant second wave
• Omicron (B.1.1.529): Identified in late 2021; highly transmissible with relatively milder symptoms

These variants differ in terms of transmission rates, severity, and vaccine effectiveness.

COVID-19 is caused by infection with the SARS-CoV-2 virus. The virus primarily spreads through:

• Respiratory droplets and aerosols
• Direct contact with infected individuals
• Contaminated surfaces (fomites)
• Close, poorly ventilated indoor spaces

People can be infectious even before showing symptoms, and asymptomatic carriers can also spread the virus.

Symptoms typically appear 2 to 14 days after exposure. Common symptoms include:

• Fever and chill
• Dry cough
• Fatigue
• Shortness of breath
• Muscle or body aches
• Sore throat
• Loss of taste or smell
• Headache
• Nasal congestion
• Nausea, vomiting, or diarrhoea

Severe cases may involve pneumonia, hypoxia, confusion, and chest pain.

Diagnosis is based on clinical symptoms, exposure history, and diagnostic testing:

• RT-PCR Test: Gold standard for detecting viral RNA
• Rapid Antigen Test: Provides quicker results, though less accurate
• Antibody Tests: Check past infection or vaccine response
• Chest Imaging (X-ray or CT): Used in severe cases to assess lung damage

There is no universal cure, but supportive and symptomatic treatment is the mainstay:

• Home Isolation: For mild cases; includes rest, hydration, and paracetamol
• Antiviral Medications: Remdesivir, Paxlovid (Covifor 100mg injection)
• Oxygen Therapy: For moderate to severe cases
• Steroids (Dexamethasone): To reduce inflammation. (Dexam 4mg tablet)
• Hospitalisation and ICU Care: For critical patients

India has also deployed Ayush and integrative approaches alongside allopathy in some settings.

Some supportive treatments, though not a substitute for medical care, include:

• Ayurveda & Homeopathy: Used for symptom relief and immunity
• Yoga and Breathing Exercises (Pranayama): To improve lung function
• Zinc, Vitamin C & D: Popular supplements, although evidence is mixed
• Steam Inhalation & Herbal Teas: For symptomatic relief

Note: Always consult a doctor before trying alternative therapies.

Certain individuals are at higher risk of severe COVID-19:

• Age over 60
• Unvaccinated individuals
• People with co-morbidities: diabetes, hypertension, cancer, kidney disease
• Obesity
• Smokers
• Immunocompromised patients

Healthcare workers due to frequent exposure

COVID-19 can lead to serious complications, including:

• Acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS)
• Pneumonia
• Blood clots (DVT, pulmonary embolism)
• Cardiac inflammation (myocarditis)
• Stroke
• Kidney failure

• Stay informed through credible sources
• Keep emergency contact numbers handy
• Monitor oxygen levels using a pulse oximeter
• Maintain a healthy lifestyle and balanced diet
• Use mental health support if dealing with anxiety or loss
• Store basic medical supplies and sanitisation products at home

• Myth: COVID-19 is just like the flu
  
  
  • Fact: COVID-19 can cause more severe illness and complications
     
• Myth: Only elderly people get severely ill
  
  
  • Fact: Young, healthy people can also experience severe or long-term symptoms
     
• Myth: Once vaccinated, you don’t need masks
  
  
  • Fact: Vaccines reduce severity but don’t guarantee complete protection
     
• Myth: Natural remedies can cure COVID-19
  
   
• Fact: No home remedy can replace evidence-based treatment
   

Seek medical help if you experience:

• Persistent chest pain or pressure
• Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath
• Oxygen saturation below 94%
• Bluish lips or face
• Confusion or inability to wake up
• Severe diarrhoea or dehydration
• High fever that does not subside

• Do I need to get tested for COVID-19?
• What are my treatment options?
• When should I seek emergency care?
• Can I isolate at home or do I need hospital care?
• What are the side effects of medications prescribed?
• How long should I quarantine?

• Ensure they stay hydrated and take medicines on time
• Help with groceries and daily chores during isolation
• Monitor their symptoms regularly
• Encourage mental wellbeing through video calls or messages
• Don’t stigmatise or blame them
• Educate others in your community
   

COVID-19 remains a significant global health challenge. Despite vaccines and improved treatment protocols, the virus continues to evolve. Awareness, timely diagnosis, and adherence to public health measures are essential in combating the pandemic. Whether you’re recovering, caring for someone, or looking to protect your community, knowledge is your best defence.