Coronavirus: what is it and how easily can it spread? Q&A

Birmingham patient becomes first UK fatality from new Sars-like respiratory illness, doctors have confirmedWhat is the new virus?The infection is caused by a previously unknown strain of coronavirus, a large family of viruses named after their crown-like protruding spines. The common cold, and more serious infections, such as pneumonia and Sars, are caused by coronaviruses.What does the virus do?The new virus causes severe respiratory illness. The main symptoms are fever, coughing, shortness of breath and breathing difficulties. The incubation period, or time from onset of infection to first symptoms appearing, is thought to be 10 days.How does the virus spread?The same way as influenza and other respiratory infections. Through coughs, sneezes, and contact with the virus.Can it spread among people?Yes, but not easily. Tests in the UK have confirmed the virus passed from a man to his son. Another family member also picked up the infection.How dangerous is it?So far, six of the 12 people known to have contracted the virus globally have died from the illness. But the risk of infection is very low, because the virus does not spread easily. If it were highly transmissible, there would be far more cases, particularly among hospital staff. For the latest information, see the World Health Organisation updates. The virus is fairly fragile, lasting only about 24 hours outside the body. It is destroyed by detergents and most cleaning products.Where did the virus come from?Most people ap...
Source: Guardian Unlimited Science - Category: Science Authors: Tags: Infectious diseases News guardian.co.uk Medical research Microbiology Q & amp;As Science Source Type: news