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SARS-CoV-2 is the virus responsible for causing COVID-19, which is a respiratory illness that emerged in late 2019. The virus is primarily spread through respiratory droplets when an infected person coughs, sneezes, or talks. It can also spread by touching contaminated surfaces and then touching the face. Anyone can become infected, but older adults and individuals with underlying health conditions such as heart disease, diabetes, or weakened immune systems are at higher risk for severe illness. Common symptoms of COVID-19 include fever, cough, shortness of breath, fatigue, and loss of taste or smell. Symptoms can range from mild to severe or even be asymptomatic. Preventative measures include vaccination, wearing masks in crowded areas, practicing good hand hygiene, and maintaining social distance. Treatment for mild cases usually involves rest and fluids, while severe cases may require antiviral medications, oxygen therapy, or hospitalization.