COVID-19 is a highly contagious respiratory coronavirus that first appeared in the United States in 2020. Its symptoms are similar to the flu: fever, congestion, sore throat and fatigue. People also sometimes report losing their sense of smell and taste when they are infected.

Most people recover at home from COVID-19, although people ages 65+ and the immunocompromised are more vulnerable to serious health problems from the virus, including death.

Vaccination is the best defense against serious illness from COVID-19. We recommend everyone stay up-to-date on their COVID-19 vaccinations and get booster shots when eligible.

For the latest information on vaccines, testing, and treatments, visit Contra Costa Health and Center for Disease Control and Prevention.