What it means
A coronavirus first identified in late 2019 that caused a worldwide pandemic. It spreads mainly through respiratory droplets and smaller particles in the air when an infected person breathes, talks, coughs or sneezes, and less often from surfaces. New variants keep appearing. COVID-19 is the name of the disease; SARS-CoV-2 is the name of the virus.
For the nurse
Follow the facility's current transmission-based precautions for clients with known or suspected infection, including a fit-tested N95 respirator for aerosol-generating procedures. Encourage vaccination as recommended.
At a glance
| Also written | severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 |
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Related terms
pathogen
A germ, such as a bacterium, virus, fungus or parasite, that can cause disease.
precaution
A step taken ahead of time to prevent harm, such as the infection-control practices used with every client.
influenza
An infection of the nose, throat and lungs caused by influenza viruses; the flu.