Submitted by Aneta on 25 February 2020 - 13:25
Coronaviruses are important human and animal pathogens. Common human coronaviruses are responsible for approximately one-third of mild to moderate community-acquired upper respiratory tract infections in adults, like the common cold. This information should not be confused with Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). COVID-19 is the third coronavirus outbreak following the SARS (Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome) and MERS (Middle East Respiratory Syndrome) outbreaks in the 21st century. COVID-19 is a type of illness that can mainly affect the respiratory system. Patients with COVID-19 usually complain of fever, cough and feeling tired. When the infection affects the lungs and causes pneumonia, shortness of breath is also observed. In some patients, COVID-19 can lead to respiratory failure, or even death.
Further information:
- World Health Organization guidance on Coronavirus
- European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control Novel Coronavirus updates