Last updated:  15 May 2021

Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) is a new strain of coronavirus that emerged in 2019. On 11 March 2020, COVID-19 was characterized by the World Health Organization (WHO) as a pandemic.

China reported the first cases of what is now referred to as COVID-19 on December 31, 2019.

Standard recommendations to prevent infection spread include regular hand washing, covering mouth and nose when coughing and sneezing, and physical distancing. Avoid mass gatherings and close contact with anyone showing symptoms of respiratory illness such as coughing and sneezing.