COVID-19, short for “Coronavirus Disease 2019,” is an infectious disease caused by the novel coronavirus SARS-CoV-2. It was first identified in Wuhan, China, in December 2019 and subsequently led to a global pandemic. COVID-19 primarily spreads through respiratory droplets when an infected person coughs, sneezes, speaks, or breathes. Symptoms can range from mild to severe and may include fever, cough, shortness of breath, fatigue, body aches, and loss of taste or smell. In severe cases, it can lead to pneumonia, acute respiratory distress syndrome, organ failure, and death.
Preventative measures include vaccinations, wearing masks, practicing physical distancing, and maintaining proper hygiene. The pandemic has had widespread social, economic, and health impacts worldwide, prompting changes in public health policy, travel restrictions, and healthcare responses.
A Vigo hospital case highlighted tensions between pandemic protocols and human connection, illustrating the emotional toll on families separated from dying loved ones. In January 2022, strict COVID-19 measures prevented…