COVID-19: Basics

COVID-19 is an infectious disease caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus. Most people with COVID-19 have mild symptoms, but some people become severely ill. Older adults and people who have certain underlying medical conditions are more likely to get severely ill. Post-COVID conditions can include a wide range of health problems that can last four or more weeks after contracting COVID-19. Even those who do not become severely ill from COVID-19 may experience Long COVID . For more information, visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's (CDC) Basics of COVID-19.

COVID-19 is spread in three main ways:

Breathing in air when close to an infected person who is exhaling small droplets and particles that contain the virus.
Having small droplets and particles that contain the virus land on the eyes, nose, or mouth, especially through splashes and sprays like a cough or sneeze.
Touching eyes, nose, or mouth with hands that have the virus on them.

COVID-19 SYMPTOMS

People with COVID-19 have reported a wide range of symptoms – ranging from mild symptoms to severe illness. Symptoms may appear 2-14 days after exposure to the virus.
Common COVID-19 symptoms include:

Fever or chills
Cough
Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing
Fatigue
Muscle or body aches
Headache
New loss of taste or smell
Sore throat
Congestion or runny nose
Nausea or vomiting
Diarrhea

This list does not include all possible symptoms. Symptoms may change with new COVID-19 variants and vary depending on vaccination status. Learn more here about COVID-19 Symptoms.
The Maryland Department of Health (MDH) works with partners to monitor the global COVID-19 outbreaks and provide information to residents.

TESTING FOR COVID-19

Marylanders experiencing COVID-19 symptoms test themselves or get tested, even if they have been vaccinated or recently contracted the virus. At-home COVID-19 tests are convenient and easy to use, and are widely available.
The following people should consider testing for COVID-19:

Those who are notified of a close contact with a confirmed COVID-19 patient.
Those who are working in health care and congregant settings.
Those who will have contact with someone at high risk for severe COVID-19.

Antigen tests are rapid tests that produce results in 15-30 minutes. You can purchase antigen tests over the counter at most local and chain pharmacies, retail stores, or online. If you cannot locate an at-home test, you can contact your local health department to find out if there are free COVID-19 test kits available in your area. Follow FDA and manufacturer's instructions, including the number of times you may need to test.
PCR-based COVID-19 tests are typically the most reliable tests for people with or without symptoms - and generally are reserved for clinical or healthcare environments. These tests detect viral genetic material, which may stay in your body for up to 90 days after you test positive. Therefore, you should not use a PCR test if you have tested positive in the last 90 days.

IF YOU ARE SICK

If you have symptoms of COVID-19, take care of yourself and stop the spread of germs as you would with any respiratory illness: stay home, rest, and drink plenty of fluids. Learn more about preventing respiratory illnesses such as COVID-12, RSV and flu: Frequently Asked Questions about respiratory virus prevention. You should also talk to your health care provider if you have questions or concerns about your risk for severe illness.
You may resume normal activities when symptoms are improving overall, and you are fever-free for at least 24 hours without medication.
For five days after resuming normal activities, it is recommended to take extra precautions, including wearing a mask, maintaining distance from others, gathering in well-ventilated areas or outdoors, and washing hands and high-touch surfaces frequently.

COVID-19 VACCINES

Current COVID-19 vaccines are available throughout Maryland. Maryland's clinical vaccine guidance for the 202 5-26 respiratory virus season (including recommendations for COVID-19 vaccination) is based on an assessment of population risks, a review of scientific literature, and consultation with medical associations. The guidance aligns with updated guidance released by the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), American Academy of Family Physicians (AAFP), and the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG).
Maryland residents have a wide variety of ways to obtain vaccines for themselves and their children, and should speak to their healthcare provider about what is best. The Maryland Department of Health is working closely with our partners to ensure the vaccine is widely accessible across Maryland. Maryland law requires regulated insurers to cover the COVID-19 vaccine.
Marylanders aged 19 and over without insurance, or whose insurance co-pay is a barrier to vaccination, can obtain a COVID-19 vaccine free through the Maryland Vaccine Program. Uninsured children are eligible for vaccines through the Vaccines for Children program.
Marylanders do not need a prescription for a COVID-19 vaccine. Immunizations are available from many providers statewide, including local health departments, federally qualified health care centers, and pharmacists who are authorized under Maryland law to give vaccines without a prescription to individuals 3 years and older.
Maryland's Vax Act (HB 637/SB 385), implemented July 1, 2026, decouples the state's official vaccine and preventive health guidelines from federal directives. Signed into law by Governor Wes Moore, it empowers the Maryland Secretary of Health to establish independent clinical recommendations based on established medical organizations, ensuring that all approved vaccines remain fully covered by insurance and accessible through local pharmacies.
Contact your pharmacy, health care provider or local health department prior to making an appointment to ask about vaccine availability and requirements.

COVID-19 Treatment

If you have COVID-19 and are at risk for severe COVID illness, treatments are available that can reduce your chances of hospitalization or death. diagnosis.
Older adults (ages 50 years or more, with risk increasing with age) and people with certain medical conditions, such as chronic lung disease, heart disease, or a weakened immune system, are more likely to get very sick from COVID-19.
Even if your symptoms are mild, anyone with risk factors should contact their healthcare provider right away to see if they are eligible for oral antiviral medications. A healthcare provider will help decide which treatment, if any, is right for you. Treatments are most effective if started within 5 days of symptoms.