COVID-19, short for Coronavirus Disease 2019, is an infectious disease caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus. Primarily spread through respiratory droplets produced when an infected person coughs, sneezes, speaks, or breathes, it can cause a range of symptoms, from mild cold-like symptoms to severe respiratory distress, pneumonia, and even death. While vaccines and treatments have significantly reduced the severity of illness and mortality, COVID-19 remains a public health concern, and preventative measures like vaccination, masking, and social distancing are still recommended to protect oneself and others, especially vulnerable populations.
