that SARS-CoV was transmitted from civet cats to humans and MERS-CoV from dromedary camels to humans. Several known coronaviruses are circulating in animals that have not yet infected humans.
– How does the virus spread? The virus is thought to spread from person to person through respiratory droplets emitted by coughing or sneezing — but it’s not clear exactly when a person becomes contagious. There’s currently no evidence that the virus is airborne — meaning, for instance, it doesn’t travel across a large room.
Standard recommendations to prevent infection spread include regular hand washing, covering mouth and nose when coughing and sneezing, thoroughly cooking meat and eggs. Avoid close contact with anyone showing symptoms of respiratory illness such as coughing and sneezing.
– Is it safe to travel? Airlines have suspended flights, and thousands of foreign citizens in China’s Wuhan have been evacuated back to their home countries. Many countries including the US have advised against travel to China.
– Who is at risk of infection? People of all ages can be infected with the virus, but older people and those with pre-existing medical conditions are especially vulnerable to severe complications.
– How do I distinguish coronavirus from the flu? Coronavirus symptoms look like flu symptoms. Common signs of infection include respiratory symptoms, fever, cough, shortness of breath and breathing difficulties. In more severe cases, infection can cause pneumonia, severe acute respiratory syndrome, kidney failure and even death. If you show these symptoms and recently went to China, or have been in contact with someone who visited, experts advise going to the doctor.