COVID-19
COVID-19 is a respiratory illness caused by the virus SARS-CoV-2. The virus can cause mild to severe disease. COVID-19 has caused more than a million deaths in the US since emerging in 2019.
COVID-19 typically affects the nose, mouth and lungs; the first symptoms can feel much like a cold or flu. Yet, COVID-19 can also cause pneumonia or complications in the heart, blood vessels, or other organs.
COVID-19 vaccination reduces the risk of serious illness, including hospitalization and death. SARS-CoV-2 mutates over time, resulting in viral variants that can reinfect humans. Scientists update COVID-19 vaccines to protect against these variants.
For more information on COVID-19 vaccinations, view:
For additional steps visit the . If you are feeling sick, visit the page.
COVID-19 Complications
COVID-19 illness can lead to ongoing complications after initial infection. Anyone infected with the virus is at risk. Complications include:
COVID-19 vaccination is the best tool to avoid future complications from COVID-19. For more information and resources on complications from COVID-19, see below.
Multisystem Inflammatory Syndrome (MIS):
MIS causes:
- Fever
- Inflammation
- Symptoms in multiple organs
- Serious illness requiring hospitalization
The disease can start several weeks as fever after COVID-19 infection. MIS is most common in children, but it can also occur in adults. In children it is known as Multisystem Inflammatory Syndrome in Children (MIS-C).
Staying up to date with COVID-19 vaccinations can help protect everyone. COVID-19 vaccinations can help protect against developing MIS.
Post-COVID Conditions (Long Covid):
Some people have symptoms that come back or last for weeks or months after having COVID-19. This condition goes by many names, including:
- Post-COVID Conditions
- Long COVID
- Long haul COVID
- Post-Acute Sequelae of COVID-19 (PASC)
Anyone who had COVID-19 can develop a post-COVID condition. This includes people who had COVID-19 with no symptoms or very mild symptoms. There is still a lot we do not know about post-COVID conditions, and this is an area of active research. Talk to a medical provider if:
- You are living with a post-COVID condition
- You are having symptoms of post-COVID conditions
COVID-19 Vaccines
COVID-19 Vaccine Update
As of 9/16/2025:
The California Department of Public Health (CDPH) continues to recommend:
CDPH is working with partners, including the West Coast Health Alliance, to continue:
- Promoting vaccine access
- Provide science and fact-based information on vaccine safety and efficacy.
COVID-19 Vaccine Availability
To learn more about scheduling your COVID-19 vaccine, check with your:
- Medical Provider’s office
- Local pharmacy
- Community health centers
You can get your flu and COVID-19 vaccines during the same visit.
Resources
CDPH
American College of Obstetricians & Gynecologists (ACOG)