COVID-19

What is COVID-19?

COVID-19 is an infectious respiratory disease caused by SARS-CoV-2 – a virus belonging to the coronavirus family. Although it is possible to contract the disease and experience no symptoms, it can also have a range of effects – notably serious respiratory conditions that can result in hospitalisation or death.

What are the symptoms of COVID-19?

The symptoms of COVID-19 can range from mild to serious and can appear 2 to 14 days after exposure to the virus.

The most common symptoms are:

• Fever or shivering
• Cough
• Shortness of breath or respiratory difficulties
• Tiredness
• Muscle or body aches
• Headaches
• New loss of sense of taste or smell
• Sore throat
• Congestion or runny nose

It is important to note that people infected with COVID-19 might display a wide range of symptoms, and some people might even remain asymptomatic.

Vulnerable people are at risk of developing serious forms of COVID-19. They must therefore be vigilant when symptoms first appear and should contact their doctor.

In the event of respiratory difficulties, such as shortness of breath at the slightest effort or when speaking, call 112. If there are any concerns about how symptoms are developing, the patient's doctor should be contacted.

Transmission and protective measures

COVID-19 is mainly transmitted through respiratory droplets released when an infected person talks, coughs or sneezes. It can also be transmitted by touching surfaces contaminated with the virus and then touching your face – in particular your mouth, nose or eyes. The virus spreads most easily in poorly ventilated indoor spaces.

To reduce the risk of contracting and spreading COVID-19, it is essential to adhere to the following precautions:

• If you are ill, wear a mask in public places, particularly if social distancing is difficult.
• Wash your hands as often as possible with soap and water for a minimum of 20 seconds each time.
• Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or your elbow when coughing or sneezing.
• Clean and disinfect any frequently touched surfaces daily.

Treatment

There are some things you can do to help manage your symptoms and to monitor your condition.

In particular, you are advised to take your temperature twice per day, to stay hydrated and to use medicinal products for any fever or pain.

Specific drugs are authorised in Luxembourg for the treatment of COVID-19 in adults who do not require supplementary oxygen and who are at high risk of developing a serious form of the disease.