What is COVID-19?

COVID-19 is the disease caused by a novel (new) strain of coronavirus that was identified in December of 2019. Coronaviruses are a family of viruses that cause illnesses such as the common cold and severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS). Scientists have named this new virus, severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), and the disease it causes, the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). Initial cases of COVID-19 were identified in Wuhan, Hubei Province, China in December of 2019. Since then, the virus has spread rapidly and is affecting people on a global scale including in the United States.

Symptoms

People with COVID-19 have had a wide range of symptoms reported – ranging from NO symptoms to severe illness. Symptoms may appear 2-14 days after exposure to the virus. Anyone can have mild to severe symptoms. People with these symptoms may have COVID-19: 

• Fever
• Cough
• Shortness of Breath or Difficulty Breathing
• Chills
• Fatigue
• Muscle or Body Aches
• Headache
• Sore throat
• New Loss of Taste or Smell
• Congestion or Runny Nose
• Nausea or Vomiting
• Diarrhea

This list does not include all possible symptoms. The CDC has created this symptom self-checker to help you make decisions about seeking appropriate medical care.

Prevention of COVID-19

COVID-19 vaccines are effective at keeping you from getting COVID-19. The vaccines can also reduce the likelihood of developing severe illness. 

Vaccines are safe effective and free!

Contact Galen Pharmacy at (423) 497-5360 if you are 18 years or older and would like the modern vaccine.