COVID-19 is an infection caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus. It can range from mild illness to severe disease and even death, especially in people with underlying health problems. Many people infected with COVID-19 may not show any symptoms but can still spread the virus. If you or a family member feel unwell or think you may have been exposed, you can get guidance and support through a consultation with Hope Plus.
Early symptoms of COVID-19 can include fever, cough, sore throat, tiredness, body aches, shortness of breath, headache, flu-like symptoms, nausea, or diarrhea. Severe cases may cause difficulty breathing, confusion, chest pain, or low oxygen levels.
People at higher risk of developing severe disease include those above 65 years, people with obesity, lung disease (such as asthma, TB, or COPD), heart disease, high blood pressure, diabetes, kidney or liver problems, cancer, HIV, sickle cell disease, or those who are unvaccinated. Pregnant women and children with malnutrition are also at higher risk.
How COVID-19 is Classified
- Mild cases: Fever, cough, or mild symptoms, no breathing difficulty.
- Moderate cases: Some lung involvement but oxygen levels are normal.
- Severe cases: Difficulty breathing, low oxygen levels, and may affect organs like the heart, kidneys, liver, or brain.
- Critical cases: Organ failure, severe breathing problems, or shock.
Testing and Diagnosis
If you have symptoms or have been exposed, a health worker may:
- Take a nasal or throat swab for a COVID-19 test.
- Test for other possible illnesses like malaria if you have a fever.
- Separate you from others until results are ready to prevent spreading the virus.
Treatment
Most mild cases can be managed at home:
- Rest and isolate from others.
- Drink plenty of fluids.
- Take paracetamol to reduce fever and relieve body aches.
- Eat a balanced diet and consider multivitamins.
For moderate cases or people at higher risk, antiviral medications may be used, such as:
- Nirmatrelvir/ritonavir for 5 days
- Remdesivir infusion in hospital
- Molnupiravir if other medications are not suitable (not for pregnant or breastfeeding women)
Severe or critical cases require hospital care:
- Oxygen therapy to support breathing
- Medications like corticosteroids to reduce inflammation
- Blood thinners to prevent clots
- Advanced treatments (like tocilizumab or baricitinib) if recommended by specialists
Isolation and Care
Whether at home or in hospital, it is important to:
- Wear a mask and practice hand hygiene
- Limit contact with other people in your home
- Monitor symptoms and seek medical help if they worsen
Prevention
- Get vaccinated according to Uganda’s immunisation schedule
- Wear masks in crowded areas
- Wash hands frequently
- Keep a safe distance from others, especially if sick
- Avoid shaking hands and sharing utensils
