COVID-19 Learn the Facts

What is COVID-19?

COVID-19 is a disease caused by a virus called SARS-CoV-2. Most people with COVID-19 have mild symptoms, but some become severely ill. Older adults and those with certain underlying medical conditions are more likely to suffer complications.

Those who develop post-COVID, or what is called “long covid,” can experience a wide range of health problems for four or more weeks after first testing positive. Even those who do not become severely sick from COVID-19 may experience post-COVID conditions.

How Does the Virus Spread?

COVID-19 is spread in three main ways:

• Breathing in air when you’re close to an infected person who is exhaling small droplets and particles that contain the virus.
• These small droplets and particles that contain the virus may land on your eyes, nose, or mouth, especially through splashes and sprays from a cough or sneeze.
• Touching your eyes, nose, or mouth when your hands have the virus on them.

Visit the CDC’s How COVID-19 Spreads page to learn how to take precautions in order to safeguard yourself and others. 

How Can I Protect Myself?

Get vaccinated! COVID-19 vaccines are effective at keeping you from getting COVID-19, and preventing severe illness and death. Vaccines are safe, effective, and free! Visit the COVID-19 Vaccinations page to find a vaccination location near you.

In addition to getting vaccinated, taking daily, proper, preventative measures can ensure your well-being. Find out more by visiting the CDC’s How to Protect Yourself & Others page.

Fulton County Board of Health also offers free at-home services to assist Fulton County residents who are more vulnerable to COVID-19 infection and death. Visit the At-Home Vaccinations and Rapid Antigen Testing page for more information.

What Should I do if I think I have COVID-19?

If you have symptoms and believe you might have COVID-19, follow the steps below to care for yourself and help protect other people in your home and community:

• Get tested
• Stay at home (except to get tested or to get medical care)
• Wear a well-fitting mask around other people for 10 days
• Do not travel for 10 days
• Separate yourself from others
• Monitor your symptoms
• Cover your coughs and sneezes
• Wash your hands often
• Clean surfaces in your home regularly
• Avoid sharing personal household items

For more information, see What to Do If You Are Sick.

What You Need to Know

• If you test positive for COVID-19 and are more likely to get very sick, treatments are available that can reduce your chances of hospitalization and death.
• Don’t delay: Treatment must be started within days after you first develop symptoms to be effective.
• Other medications can help reduce symptoms and help you manage your illness.
• The Treatment Locator (hhs.gov) can help you find a location that offers testing and treatment or a pharmacy where you can fill your prescription.

What if I Test Positive for COVID-19?

If you receive a positive test result, you should:

• Stay home for at least 5 days and isolate yourself from others in your home.
• Tell your close contacts.
• Wear a well-fitting mask when around others. If available, an N95 or KN95 respirator is recommended.
• Watch for symptoms. If you have any emergency warning signs, seek emergency care immediately.
• Contact your healthcare provider as soon as possible, especially if:
  • Your symptoms get worse.
  • You are an older adult and/or you have an underlying medical condition. Additional treatment may be available for you.
  • You have questions about your isolation.

Where Can I find Data on County COVID-19 Reporting for Fulton County?

 Visit our Monthly Reports page to see the latest data on the number of COVID-19 cases reported within our county.

What are COVID-19 Community Levels?

COVID-19 Community Levels is a tool to help counties decide what prevention steps to take based on if their current status is low, medium, or high. These degrees are determined by factoring in the percent of staffed inpatient beds that are occupied by COVID-19 patients, and in the last 7 days (per 100,000 population) how many new COVID-19 admissions and total COVID-19 cases have been reported.

Use the widget below, or visit the CDC’s COVID-19 Community Level page and enter state and county information to see the current community level of Fulton County.