Basic Questions about Coronavirus-19 (COVID-19)

What is (COVID-19)?

The Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is a novel (new) strain of Coronavirus. It is considered to be very similar to many Coronaviruses that are typically transmitted from animals to humans. However, this novel virus is reported to have been transmitted from human to human with a course of illness that ranges from mild to moderate symptoms in the majority of people with the infection.

What are the symptoms of COVID-19?

Reported illnesses have ranged from people being mildly sick to people being severely ill. Symptoms can include:

• fever
• cough
• shortness of breath

People who have chronic diseases and low immunity may experience severe symptoms and complications or even death.

How is COVID-19 diagnosed?

There is a test for COVID-19 that involves collecting swabs from both the nose and the throat.

How is COVID-19 treated?

There is currently no vaccine or treatment available to treat COVID-19. People infected with COVID-19 receive medical care to relieve their symptoms.

If you suspect you are ill and have flu-like symptoms, please stay home and call Qatar’s MOPH COVID-19 hotline 16000