Mild-to-moderate COVID-19

Mild-to-Moderate COVID-19 in Patients: What You Need to Know

COVID-19 is an infectious disease caused by the novel coronavirus SARS-CoV-2 that has been declared a pandemic by the World Health Organization. It can range from mild to severe and life-threatening. Here is what you need to know about mild-to-moderate COVID-19 in patients.

Symptoms of Mild-to-Moderate COVID-19

The most common symptoms of mild-to-moderate COVID-19 in patients include:

• Cough
• Fever
• Shortness of breath
• Fatigue
• Muscle aches
• Loss of smell or taste
• Headache
• Sore throat
• Nausea and vomiting
• Diarrhea

Diagnosing Mild-to-Moderate COVID-19

Mild-to-moderate COVID-19 is typically diagnosed through a combination of lab tests and clinical assessments. A doctor may order:

• A nasal swab test to look for the virus in saliva. This is typically ordered if a patient has symptoms of COVID-19 and is more likely to have the disease.
• A blood test to look for antibodies to the virus. This test can indicate whether the patient has been exposed to the virus in the past.
• A CT scan or X-ray to look for lung abnormalities, which can indicate the presence of COVID-19.

Treatment for Mild-to-Moderate COVID-19

Treatment for mild-to-moderate COVID-19 depends on the symptoms and severity of the illness. Some patients may only need supportive care, such as rest, fluids, and ibuprofen (Advil) for fever relief. Other patients may need additional treatments, such as:

• Antiviral medications, such as remdesivir or oseltamivir (Tamiflu).
• Corticosteroids, such as prednisone or dexamethasone, to reduce inflammation in the lungs.
• Oxygen therapy if there is an oxygen deficiency in the blood.
• Antibiotics if there is a secondary bacterial infection.

Prevention of Mild-to-Moderate COVID-19

The best way to prevent mild-to-moderate COVID-19 is to practice good hygiene, including:

• Regularly washing your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds.
• Wearing a cloth face mask when out in public.
• Avoiding close contact with people who are ill.
• Avoiding contact with people who have been exposed to COVID-19.
• Avoiding touching your face, eyes, or mouth.
• Practicing social distancing by staying at least 6 feet away from others.
• Staying home if you are feeling unwell.

Conclusion

Mild-to-moderate COVID-19 is an infectious disease caused by the novel coronavirus SARS-CoV-2. Symptoms may include cough, fever, shortness of breath, fatigue, muscle aches, loss of smell or taste, headache, sore throat, nausea, and/or diarrhea. Treatment typically includes antiviral medications, corticosteroids, oxygen therapy, and/or antibiotics. Prevention includes good hygiene, wearing a cloth face mask in public, avoiding close contact with people who are ill, avoiding contact with people who have been exposed to COVID-19, and social distancing.