COVID-19 is a condition caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus. SARS-CoV-2 stands for “severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2.” SARS-CoV-2 is a coronavirus. It is in the same family of viruses that cause the common cold, but it can have more severe health effects. COVID-19 primarily affects the lungs and sinuses (nose), or upper respiratory tract. It can also affect other parts of the body. The long-term effects of COVID-19 on the body are not yet fully understood, but may include damage to the brain, cardiovascular system, digestive system, and kidneys. COVID-19 is mainly spread when particles of the virus escape an infected person’s mouth and nose when they cough, sneeze, or talk.