How Long Are You Contagious with COVID-19?
Key Points
- The length of time a person is contagious with COVID-19 depends on the severity of their illness.
- People with mild to moderate symptoms are typically contagious for about 10 days.
- People with severe symptoms may be contagious for up to 20 days.
- The incubation period for COVID-19 is typically 2-14 days.
- There are several ways to protect yourself and others from infection, including:
- Getting vaccinated
- Wearing a mask
- Social distancing
- Washing your hands frequently
Additional Information
The COVID-19 virus is spread through close contact with an infected person. The virus can be spread through respiratory droplets that are produced when an infected person coughs, sneezes, or talks. People can also become infected by touching surfaces that have been contaminated with the virus and then touching their face.
The symptoms of COVID-19 can range from mild to severe. The most common symptoms include fever, cough, shortness of breath, and fatigue. Some people may also experience loss of taste or smell, muscle aches, headache, and sore throat.
There is no specific cure for COVID-19, but treatment can help relieve symptoms and prevent complications. Treatment may include rest, over-the-counter pain relievers, and antiviral medications.
If you think you may have COVID-19, it is important to get tested and isolate yourself from others. You should also contact your doctor for advice on treatment.
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