Covid-19
1 medicine
Covid-19 is a respiratory illness caused by SARS-CoV-2, ranging from mild cold-like symptoms to severe pneumonia. Most adults recover at home, though antivirals such as molnupiravir help those at risk of severe disease.
Key facts
- Covid-19 is caused by the SARS-CoV-2 coronavirus and ranges from a brief flu-like illness to severe pneumonia requiring hospitalisation.
- Fever, sore throat, fatigue, and a new persistent cough are the most common early signs; loss of taste or smell occurs less often with recent variants.
- Antiviral medicines such as molnupiravir work best when started early, typically within five days of symptoms beginning, and are used in adults at risk of progressing to severe disease.
- Older adults, the immunocompromised, and people with conditions such as diabetes or heart disease face a much higher risk of serious illness.
Symptoms and when to seek help
Fever, sore throat, fatigue, and a new persistent cough are the most common early signs. Loss of taste or smell, though less frequent with recent variants, can still occur. Most people feel worst in the first week.
Seek medical attention promptly if breathing becomes laboured, oxygen saturation drops below 95%, chest pain develops, or confusion sets in.
Antiviral treatment
Antiviral medicines work best when started early, typically within five days of symptoms beginning. Molnupiravir is one such oral antiviral; it interferes with the virus's ability to replicate and is used in adults at risk of progression to severe disease.
Who is most at risk
Most adults recover at home, but older adults, the immunocompromised, and those with conditions such as diabetes or heart disease face a much higher risk of serious illness. Early contact with a clinic or pharmacist helps you access treatment while it works best.
Supportive care and preventing spread
Rest, fluids, and paracetamol for fever or aches support recovery in mild to moderate cases. Staying away from others while symptomatic, wearing a mask around vulnerable people, and washing hands regularly all reduce the chance of passing the infection on. Testing early after symptoms start makes it easier to confirm the diagnosis and start an antiviral within the window where it works best.
This page is educational and does not replace advice from a doctor or pharmacist who knows your health history.