A coronavirus virus which can trigger respiratory symptoms that can feel like a cold or flu. The virus responsible for the current outbreak is called SARS-CoV-2. It’s a cousin of the one that caused an outbreak in 2003 that was referred to as severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS). The new virus spreads more easily and faster than the one that caused SARS. It is also spreading further than the SARS CoV-1 virus during its outbreak.
Aerosols are tiny droplets or particles released by a person suffering from the virus when they cough, sneeze or talk. The virus can float for a long time in the air. You can breathe it in or even touch it on surfaces. People can get infected by touching a surface or person, then breathing in the virus, or by putting their hands in their mouths, eyes or nose. Some people might not show any symptoms or even realize they are infected, however, others may become sick.
The majority of people get a coronavirus at the very least once throughout their lives, most often as children. Most cases are mild and disappear by themselves, but some can be severe or even fatal. Scientists are currently trying to find a cure.