Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) Infection: Returning to sports/physical activity

COVID-19 is caused by a coronavirus called severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2). It is believed to spread primarily from person to person, mainly through respiratory droplets produced when an infected person coughs, sneezes, or breathes hard (deeply). These droplets can be inhaled and land in the mouth, nose, or eyes of people who are close by. Spread is more likely when people are within 6 feet of one another and in enclosed spaces. A person can be infected with the virus by touching an object or surface that has been contaminated and then touching their mouth, nose, or eyes. Data suggest that the COVID-19 virus spreads more efficiently than influenza. COVID-19 is associated with significant mortality and morbidity, including adverse cardiopulmonary, metabolic, and neurologic abnormalities. Older adults and people with obesity or underlying health conditions (e.g., heart or lung disease) are at the greatest risk (1).