![]() This includes how they are passed from one individual to another, and the differing symptoms of coronaviruses. The new SARS-CoV-2, is most closely related to a group of SARS-CoVs found in humans, bats, pangolins and civets.Įven though there are many similarities between the new COVID-19 and the virus that caused the SARS epidemic, there are also differences resulting from changes in their genomes. What is different about the new coronavirus? It is thought that the new COVID-19 likely originated from bats but it is not yet known whether mutations allowed this jump from animals to humans. These changes, called mutations, help the virus adapt to and infect new host species. RNA viruses have small genomes which are subject to constant change. Whereas the genomes of some viruses like chickenpox and smallpox are made of DNA like humans, those of coronaviruses are made of the closely related RNA. Inside the membrane is the virus’ genetic material – its genome. This membrane can be disrupted by detergents and alcohols, which is why soap and water and alcohol hand sanitiser gels are effective against the virus. Beneath these spikes is a layer of membrane. They are named for the distinctive appearance of their spikes when seen under a powerful microscope, the spikes look like a crown (corona is the Latin for ‘crown’). Bits of the spike can be used in potential coronavirus vaccines to prompt the body to produce antibodies against this new virus. However, the same spikes are also what allows the immune system to 'see' the virus. These spikes help the virus bind to and infect healthy cells. They are spherical and coated with spikes of protein. What do coronaviruses look like?Ĭoronaviruses are relatively simple structures, and their form helps us to understand how they work. Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) is the virus responsible for the current outbreak of coronavirus disease (COVID-19), which was first identified in Wuhan, China, following reports of serious pneumonia. Since December 2019, the world has been battling another coronavirus. They usually cause mild colds in people but the emergence of the severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS) epidemic in China in 2002–2003 and the Middle East respiratory syndrome (MERS) on the Arabian Peninsula in 2012 show they can also cause severe disease. There is much we need to learn about the new coronavirus (COVID-19).Ĭoronaviruses (CoVs) are a family of viruses that cause respiratory and intestinal illnesses in humans and animals. Seven different types have been found in people, including those responsible for the SARS, MERS and COVID-19 epidemics.Įarly reports suggest the new virus is more contagious than the one causing SARS but less likely to cause severe symptoms. What is coronavirus? Coronaviruses are a family of viruses that cause illness in humans and animals. Share this Twitter Facebook WhatsApp LinkedIn
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