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Coronaviruses: What They Are and How They Spread

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What is a Coronavirus?

Coronaviruses are a large family of viruses that can cause illness ranging from the common cold to more severe diseases like Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS) and Middle East Respiratory Syndrome (MERS). The novel coronavirus that causes COVID-19 is a new strain that was first identified in Wuhan, China, in late 2019.

Structure of Coronaviruses

Coronaviruses are enveloped viruses, meaning they have a protective outer layer made of lipids (fats) and proteins. This outer layer surrounds a core of genetic material, which is RNA in the case of coronaviruses. The shape of the virus is spherical, and it has a distinctive crown-like appearance, hence the name "corona" (Latin for "crown").

Diagram of a coronavirus structure

How Coronaviruses Cause Disease

Coronaviruses infect the respiratory system, primarily the nose, throat, and lungs. When a person is infected, the virus enters the body through the nose, mouth, or eyes. It then attaches to cells in the respiratory system and enters them. Inside the cells, the virus replicates itself, creating more copies of the virus. These new viruses then spread to other cells in the body, causing inflammation and damage.

How Coronaviruses Spread

Coronaviruses spread through respiratory droplets produced when an infected person coughs, sneezes, or talks. These droplets can travel up to six feet and can be inhaled by other people or land on their surfaces. People can also become infected by touching a contaminated surface and then touching their eyes, nose, or mouth.

The risk of spreading the virus is greatest when someone is symptomatic, but they can also spread the virus before they develop symptoms. This is why it is important to take precautions like wearing a mask, washing your hands frequently, and maintaining physical distancing.

COVID-19: A New Coronavirus

COVID-19 is caused by a new type of coronavirus called SARS-CoV-2. This virus is highly contagious and can spread easily from person to person. The symptoms of COVID-19 can range from mild to severe, and some people may not experience any symptoms at all. Common symptoms include fever, cough, shortness of breath, fatigue, muscle aches, headache, sore throat, and loss of taste or smell.

Preventing the Spread of Coronaviruses

There are several things you can do to help prevent the spread of coronaviruses, including:

  • Wash your hands frequently with soap and water for at least 20 seconds.
  • Use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer if soap and water are not available.
  • Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth.
  • Stay home if you are sick.
  • Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or your elbow when you cough or sneeze.
  • Clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces.
  • Practice physical distancing by staying at least six feet away from others.
  • Wear a mask in public settings, especially indoors.

If you are concerned about your health or have symptoms of COVID-19, it is important to contact your doctor or a healthcare provider.

Viruses