A Timeline of Coronavirus (COVID-19)

The new coronavirus disease, called COVID-19, has appeared and spread extremely quickly, making its way to over 200 countries since its December 2019 discovery in China. This particular type of respiratory disease is caused by a virus called SARS-CoV-2. It’s part of a larger family of coronaviruses, the majority of which cause only the common cold.

More dangerous types of coronavirus include Middle East respiratory syndrome (MERS-CoV) and severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus (SARS-CoV). Like these more serious strains, COVID-19 can cause anything from mild respiratory problems to pneumonia or death.

The World Health Organization has declared COVID-19 a public health emergency. 

Symptoms

Symptoms of COVID-19, which range from mild to severe, may appear 1 to 14 days after initial exposure. They include:

1. Fever
2. Cough
3. Shortness of breath
4. Chills
5. Repeated shaking with chills
6. Muscle pain
7. Headache
8. Sore throat
9. Loss of sense of smell or taste

If you think you may be sick but haven't talked to a healthcare provider yet, you can use our printable Doctor Discussion Guide below to help prepare you for your appointment.