Coronaviruses are a group of common viruses. They are named for the crown-like spikes on the surface of the virus. Some coronaviruses only affect animals, but others can also affect humans. Most people get infected with human coronaviruses at some time in their life.

Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is a new type of coronavirus. It causes respiratory illness in people. It was first identified in Wuhan, China. It has spread to many countries around the world.

COVID-19 can spread from person to person. This usually happens through respiratory droplets - when someone with the virus coughs or sneezes, and you breathe it in. Most often, you need to be close to the person (within 6 feet) for it to spread this way. It might be possible to get COVID-19 by touching a surface or object that has the virus on it and then touching your own mouth, nose, or possibly your eyes. But this is not thought to be the main way the virus spreads.

COVID-19 can cause respiratory illness that ranges from mild to severe or even deadly. The symptoms usually start between 2 to 14 days after you get infected. They include

   Fever

   Cough

   Shortness of breath

Many of the people who have a COVID-19 infection have pneumonia in both lungs.

There is a test for COVID-19. There is no specific treatment for COVID-19. Medical care can help to relieve the symptoms.

There is no vaccine to prevent COVID-19. But you may able to reduce your risk of getting or spreading an infection by.

   Washing hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. If soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol.

   Avoiding touching your face, nose, or mouth with unwashed hands

   Avoiding close contact with people who are sick

   Using a regular household cleaning spray or wipe to clean and disinfecting surfaces that you frequently touch.

   Covering coughs and sneezes with a tissue. Then throw away the tissue and wash your hands.

   Staying home when sick

   Use a facemask only if you have symptoms of COVID-19, so you can prevent spreading it to others. Facemasks are not recommended for people who are not sick.