Key points about COVID-19
- COVID-19 is a disease caused by the coronavirus SARS-CoV-2
- COVID-19 can affect your lungs, airways and other organs
- coronaviruses are a large family of viruses which cause illnesses like the common cold
- if you or your child are sick, stay at home - away from daycare, school, work and other indoor areas like shopping malls
What is COVID-19?
COVID-19 is a disease caused by the coronavirus SARS-CoV-2. It can affect your lungs, airways and other organs.
Coronaviruses are from a large family of viruses that cause illnesses like the common cold.
SARS-CoV-2 was first recognised in China. It's still unclear how the virus came to infect humans. The disease spread to other countries, with the World Health Organization (WHO) declaring a pandemic on 11 March 2020.
There have been genetic mutations (changes) to the virus over time. Some of these mutations, such as the Omicron variant, can spread more easily than the original virus.
How COVID-19 spreads
COVID-19 is an airborne illness that spreads from person to person. When an infected person breathes, speaks, coughs, sneezes or sings, they may spread particles containing the virus. These particles range in size. Some particles can remain on surfaces or airborne for minutes to hours.
The risk of catching COVID-19 is higher:
- in enclosed spaces that do not have good airflow
- in crowded places
- in close-contact settings, such as close-range conversations
Find out more about why wearing masks and ventilation helps.
COVID-19 - Masks & Ventilation
Reducing the risk of getting COVID-19
Find out how to protect yourself and others against COVID-19.
How To Protect Yourself & Others Against COVID-19
Symptoms of COVID-19
If tamariki (children) catch COVID-19, they often only have mild symptoms. Some tamariki may have no symptoms.
Common symptoms of COVID-19 are similar to cold and flu symptoms.
They can include:
- cough
- sneezing and runny nose
- fever
- headache
- tiredness, feeling generally unwell
- loss of taste or smell
- sore, scratchy throat
- shortness of breath
Symptoms of COVID-19 may also include:
- diarrhoea, nausea, vomiting, particularly in babies and young tamariki
- tummy pain
- muscle aches
- wheezing and croup-like illness
These symptoms can happen with other illnesses and do not necessarily mean you or your child have COVID-19.
COVID-19 symptoms charts In 7 languages
Shortness of breath is a sign of possible pneumonia - your child needs to see a doctor immediately.
Signs That Children Are Struggling To Breath
How long does it take for symptoms to appear?
People who get COVID-19 symptoms are likely to get them within 3 days of first being infected. But it could take up to 8 days after infection. People may have COVID-19 without any symptoms.
Some people with COVID-19 can pass it on to others 1 or 2 days before showing symptoms.
Watch emergency doctors give advice about common and less common COVID-19 symptoms, how to care for your child with COVID-19 at home, and when to see a doctor.
Caring For A Child With COVID-19
Who can I call for health advice and information
If your baby or child has any cold or flu-like symptoms, keep them home from daycare or school until they have no more symptoms. Phone Healthline on 0800 611 116 (for general health advice) or your GP practice, as soon as possible. Make sure to phone your GP practice before visiting the clinic.
Healthline is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week on 0800 611 116. Call Healthline if you need advice about a child of any age who is unwell, hurt, or has any symptoms of sickness. It's free to callers throughout New Zealand, including from a mobile phone.
