COVID-19 virus is a Betacoronavirus, related to the viruses that cause SARS and MERS
COVID-19 is the name of the disease caused by the COVID-19 virus, also known as SARS-CoV-2 virus
Transmission occurs via droplets and fomites. Airborne spread is not known to occur outside of aerosol-generating procedures. Fecal shedding has been identified but fecal-oral spread is not a driver of transmission
Incubation period is 4 days (median), but ranges from 2-14 days
Concomitant viral or bacterial pathogens at presentation have not been widely described. Secondary bacterial infection can occur, particularly in those receiving mechanical ventilation
COVID-19 has been defined as a pandemic by the World Health Organization. Updates are being provided by international and national agencies continuously.
Guideline adapted from the Fraser Health Antimicrobial Stewardship Program