COVID-19 Basics

COVID-19 is a respiratory disease caused by the SARS-CoV-2 coronavirus. The virus that causes COVID-19 spreads easily through close physical contact (within about 6 feet) with an infected person. The virus spreads through respiratory droplets when an infected person talk, coughs, or sneezes.

Photo courtesy of CDC / Alissa Eckert, MSMI; Dan Higgins, MAMS

SYMPTOMS

Symptoms typically appear within 2-14 days after exposure, and may include but are not limited to:

  • Fever

  • Cough

  • Difficulty breathing

  • New loss of taste or smell

Some people may not develop symptoms, but can still spread the virus to others.

HIGH RISK GROUPS

Groups at risk for developing serious illness or death include people over 65, people on dialysis, and people with preexisting conditions like:

  • Heart disease

  • Diabetes

  • Lung diseases (like asthma or COPD)

  • Any condition that weakens the immune system

If you think you may have been exposed to or developed COVID-19, check your symptoms and contact your healthcare provider or call the Michigan COVID-19 Hotline at 888-535-6136 for medical advice.

For more, information on COVID-19, review these resources from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention:

FIND COVID-19 TESTING IN MICHIGAN

To locate COVID-19 testing in Michigan, use the interactive testing site locator. Many sites operated by the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services are free to anyone without health insurance and do not require ID.

OPEN IN A NEW TAB

GET VACCINATED

  • Use the CDC COVID Vaccine Finder

  • Check your local health department's website or call their COVID assistance number is available

  • If you have a primary care provider, check with your health system

  • Check local pharmacies like Meijer, Rite Aid, Walgreens, CVS, Kroger, Walmart (Mid/Central and Northern MI) or Snyder Drugs (U.P. residents)

  • Residents who don't have access to the internet or who need assistance navigating the vaccine scheduling process can call the COVID-19 Hotline at 888-535-6136 (press 1) Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday and Sunday 8 a.m. to 1 p.m.

FIND RESOURCES ABOUT ALL THINGS COVID-19 IN OUR RESOURCE LIBRARY