COVID-19 +
Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is an infectious disease caused by the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2). The disease has spread globally since 2019, resulting in the 2019–20 coronavirus pandemic. Common symptoms include fever, cough and shortness of breath. Muscle pain, sputum production and sore throat are some of the less common symptoms. While the majority of cases result in mild symptoms, some progress to pneumonia and multi-organ failure. The case fatality rate is estimated at between 1% and 5% but varies by age and other health conditions.The infection is spread from one person to others via respiratory droplets, often produced during coughing. Time from exposure to onset of symptoms is generally between two and 14 days, with an average of five days. The standard method of diagnosis is by reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (rRT-PCR) from a nasopharyngeal swab or sputum sample. Antibody assays can also be used, using a blood serum sample. The infection can also be diagnosed from a combination of symptoms, risk factors and a chest CT scan showing features of pneumonia.Recommended measures to prevent the disease include frequent hand washing, maintaining distance from other people and not touching one's face. The use of masks is recommended for those who suspect they have the virus and their caregivers but not for the general public. There is no vaccine or specific antiviral treatment for COVID-19; management involves treatment of symptoms, supportive care and experimental measures.The World Health Organization (WHO) has declared the 2019–20 coronavirus outbreak a pandemic and a Public Health Emergency of International Concern (PHEIC). Evidence of local transmission of the disease has been found in multiple countries across all six WHO regions | This event tag for OzBargain purposes is for posts directly related to COVID-19 or relief given as part of it. For self isolation/entertainment deals see this list: https://www.ozbargain.com.au/node/526217
![Visa Application Fee Refunds and Waivers via Department of Home Affairs [Various Conditions and Fee Waived]](https://files.ozbargain.com.au/n/28/685428.jpg?h=a83e1e57)
![[VIC] Free Vegetarian Meals for Anyone in Need @ Om Vegetarian Restaurant, Melbourne CBD](https://files.ozbargain.com.au/n/28/638428.jpg?h=bb1124b3)
![[VIC] Free Sanitisation Kit for Rideshare Drivers (Metro Areas) - Ola](https://files.ozbargain.com.au/n/49/619549.jpg?h=76a1b7be)
![[VIC] Free Meal for Those in Need, 3pm-6pm Daily @ Hecho En Mexico (Fitzroy)](https://files.ozbargain.com.au/n/66/553666.jpg?h=0e3e7705)
![[VIC] Medihealth Guard Disposable 3ply Surgical Face Mask. Box of 50 for $34.99 @ Costco Epping (Membership Required)](https://files.ozbargain.com.au/n/37/553237.jpg?h=37082cbe)
![[VIC] Free Pet Food & Supplies for Jobless/Battlers/Needy Pet Owners @ SCAR Animal Shelter, Craigieburn (drive-thru)](https://files.ozbargain.com.au/n/69/552769.jpg?h=6a4166dc)
