Preparing for COVID-19: The lessons from SARS 2003 in Canada

Abstract

What is Covid-19? Definition: COVID-19 is the infectious disease caused by the most recently discovered coronavirus. It was first recognized in Wuhan, China, in December 2019. Symptoms: The most common symptoms are fever, tiredness, and dry cough. Some people may have aches and pains, nasal congestion, runny nose, sore throat or diarrhea. Course: Symptoms usually begin gradually. Some people become infected but don’t develop any symptoms. Most people (about 80%) recover from the disease without needing special treatment. Around 1 out of every 6 people becomes seriously ill and develops difficulty breathing. At risk: Older people, and those with underlying medical problems. People with fever, cough and difficulty breathing should seek medical attention.