CDC is aware of recent reports indicating that persons who were previously diagnosed with COVID-19 can be re-infected. These reports can understandably cause concern. The immune response, including duration of immunity, to SARS-CoV-2 infection is not yet understood. Based on what we know from other viruses, including common human coronaviruses, some reinfections are expected. Ongoing COVID-19 studies will help establish the frequency and severity of reinfection and who might be at higher risk for reinfection. At this time, whether you have had COVID-19 or not, the best ways to prevent infection are to wear a mask in public places, stay at least 6 feet away from other people, frequently wash your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, and avoid crowds and confined spaces.
Q. What does SARS-CoV-2 stand for?
SARS-CoV-2 stands for severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2. It is a virus that causes respiratory illness in humans.
Q. Can people who recover from COVID-19 be re-infected with SARS-CoV-2?
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Aerosols are emitted by a person infected with coronavirus — even one with no symptoms — when they talk, breathe, cough, or sneeze. Another person can breathe in these aerosols and become infected with the virus. Aerosolized coronavirus can remain in the air for up to three hours.
Q. How long are people with COVID-19 infectious?
Mild cases are typically no longer infectious 10 days after diagnosis. More severe cases are generally infectious for at least 20 days; when these cases are no longer infectious can only be confirmed by viral culture.
Q. Can people without symptoms spread COVID-19?
The virus can be spread to others from someone who’s infected but not showing symptoms. This includes people who:• haven’t yet developed symptoms (pre-symptomatic)• never develop symptoms (asymptomatic)
Q. Can COVID-19 spread through food?
Food safety during the COVID-19 pandemic Scientists and food safety authorities around the world are closely monitoring the spread of COVID-19. There are currently no confirmed cases of COVID-19 or its new variants being spread through food or food packaging.
Q. Who is at higher risk of severe COVID-19 illness?
Those who are at risk of developing more severe disease or outcomes from COVID-19 are people: who are an older adult (increasing risk with each decade, especially over 60 years)of any age with chronic medical conditions, including:lung diseaseheart diseasehigh blood pressurediabeteskidney diseaseliver diseasedementiastrokeany age who are immunocompromised, including those:with an underlying medical condition, such as cancertaking medications which lower the immune system, such as chemotherapyliving with obesity (BMI of 40 or higher)
